3 potential trade targets for Atlanta Braves
By David Hill
Josh Staumont
The Atlanta Braves pitching staff is in good shape; however, it never hurts to have additional depth in case of injuries.
The Braves also have to look ahead. Kenley Jansen and Will Smith are both free agents after this season, although they do hold a team option on the latter. Finding a potential long term option for the ninth would make sense, especially if they can bolster their bullpen for this year as well.
Josh Staumont may not have extensive closer experience, but he could be a closer in waiting on the right team. He has served as a secondary option for the Royals, notching eight saves in the past year and a half, and could fit into that role going forward for the Braves.
Getting a proper pitching coach would also make a great deal of difference. Staumont has been solid this year, posting a 3.04 ERA and a 1.310 WHiP over his 23.2 innings, striking out 30 batters with 11 walks. However, despite being an extreme fly ball pitcher, he has allowed just one homer this year, something that could work well as the Braves navigate a difficult NL East.
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The Atlanta Braves need to find a long term answer at closer and another reliever for this year. Josh Staumont could be the answer to both problems.