Joey Gallo could actually be a fit for Atlanta Braves

Jul 17, 2022; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees right fielder Joey Gallo (13) reacts to hitting a fly ball out during the eighth inning against the Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 17, 2022; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees right fielder Joey Gallo (13) reacts to hitting a fly ball out during the eighth inning against the Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports

Let us go back to last year. The Atlanta Braves, when faced with an outfield depleted by injury and dramatic underperformance, made several moves. Jorge Soler, Joc Pederson, Adam Duvall, and Eddie Rosario were all brought in via trade, none of which really cost anything. Those moves proved to be strokes of genius as they helped the Braves capture the World Series.

This year is not nearly as much of a disaster in the outfield. Ronald Acuna is healthy again and Michael Harris II has been a revelation, but that third outfield spot has been a revolving door of mediocrity. Duvall had been providing some power but is now lost for the year after wrist surgery. It is time to find another piece to solidify that core.

Atlanta Braves could be right fit for Joey Gallo

One such option may be right there for the taking. Joey Gallo has been a disaster with the New York Yankees and clearly needs a change of scenery. The Yankees would love to be rid of him at this point and may finally be ready to admit that he will not generate much of a return on the trade market.

That would fit the Braves’ budget perfectly. They have other needs outside of the outfield, as help in the bullpen and starting rotation would also make sense. However, they only have so many prospects that they can afford to part with, especially after their offseason blockbuster for Matt Olson.

Gallo would not appear to be much of an upgrade. He has produced a disappointing 81 OPS+ in his 269 plate appearances entering Monday, hitting 12 homers while drawing 40 walks and striking out 102 times. Even his Gold Glove caliber defense has suffered this season.

But Gallo could simply need a change of scenery. When he is right, few players can change the game with one swing of the bat the way he can. He may strike out far too much, but he can hit the ball further than virtually anyone currently in the majors. His potential to be a viable power threat and stellar defensive option makes him one of the more intriguing players that could be available at the deadline.

That makes him such an intriguing option for the Braves. They were able to generate impressive production from underrated assets last year. Gallo could end up making the same impact for what could be a low cost.

Next. Duvall injury changes deadline plans. dark

The Atlanta Braves need an outfielder and the New York Yankees want to get rid of Joey Gallo. A deal between the two teams could make sense.