The Atlanta Braves surprised the baseball world on Thursday night as they traded for Joc Pederson. While there was a clear need for outfield help, the Braves did not appear to be in a position to be buyers at the trade deadline. However, despite their mediocre 44-45 record, they remain just four games back of the Mets for the NL East, giving hope that they can capture the division.
Given how close they are to the division lead, the Braves may not be done. General manager Alex Anthopoulos said that their focus currently is on supplementing the roster, as they are not done adding.
Alex Anthopoulos: "Right now, our focus is on adding."
— Gabe Burns (@GabeBurnsAJC) July 16, 2021
Atlanta Braves becoming somewhat surprising buyers
The Braves clearly need more help. Even with the addition of Pederson, the outfield is thin. Adding another outfielder, depth on their bench, and arms in the bullpen would make a great deal of sense if they are taking a run at a postseason berth.
But there is also a matter of how realistic such a run will be. It is impossible to replace Ronald Acuna Jr., who has been lost for the season due to a torn ACL. Marcell Ozuna, who is sidelined due to injury and his domestic violence situation, may not have been the player he was in 2020, but he is still a fearsome slugger. Mike Soroka may not have pitched in 2021, but there was hope he would return before he tore his Achillies once again.
The Braves are up against those major losses, as well as the holes in their pitching staff and outfield. It is a lot to ask of this team, making any push for a playoff berth that much more difficult. And yet, with the Mets’ own injury woes and inability to separate themselves in the division, there is still a chance.
All the Braves need to do is to reach the postseason. That may be easier said than done, especially given the holes on the roster. But there is reason to hope and dream, and that appears to be enough for the front office to look to continue to add to the roster.
The Atlanta Braves may be a longshot to reach the postseason, but they are determined to give it their best shot. Joc Pederson may just be the beginning.