Three blockbuster outfield trade targets for the Braves

One of the lesser-discussed needs for the Atlanta Braves entering the offseason is outfield/DH. Marcell Ozuna is set to test free agency, and it feels unlikely the Braves make a strong push to bring him back, instead prioritizing a bat that can also contribute defensively for a number of reasons.

Jurickson Profar proved to be a liability in left field, and Ronald Acuna Jr.’s lengthy injury history means the Braves will want to give him regular DH opportunities. They’ll also want to leave room at DH for Drake Baldwin, who looks like a rising star but will continue to lose reps behind the plate as long as Sean Murphy remains on the roster.

It’s very possible the Braves address this need through the bargain aisle of free agency. Players like Adam Duvall, Joc Pederson, Jorge Soler, and Eddie Rosario didn’t exactly break the bank, yet they helped lead the team to a World Series. However, reports following this year’s trade deadline revealed the Braves were heavily interested in acquiring All-Star outfielder Byron Buxton, who ultimately chose not to waive his no-trade clause.

Perhaps Atlanta reignites those conversations this offseason, but there are also other marquee names worth monitoring who could become available via trade.

Jarren Duran

The growing sentiment around the league is that the Red Sox will look to trade Jarren Duran this offseason due to their surplus of talented outfielders. Duran still has two years of arbitration control remaining and is flirting with superstar status, amassing 13.3 WAR over the last two seasons. While he’s not known for his power, he racks up extra-base hits at an impressive rate and brings elite speed on the bases along with plus defense in the outfield. His fiery energy and competitiveness would also be a welcome presence in a Braves clubhouse that could use a little jolt at times.

Steven Kwan

Kwan isn’t quite the offensive force that Duran is, but he’s still an above-average hitter — boasting a career 109 OPS+ (9% better than league average) — and one of the best defensive outfielders in baseball, having won a Gold Glove in each of his four seasons. The Guardians are always an interesting team to monitor in trade discussions, as they manage to stay competitive while moving top talent before players hit free agency.

Byron Buxton

Buxton is a legitimate superstar when healthy, but durability has always been a major concern. Across 11 MLB seasons, he’s eclipsed the 100-game mark three times — though two of those instances came within the last two years. His contract is also quite appealing, as he’s owed only $15M annually over the next three seasons. Buxton made it clear he didn’t want to be traded at this year’s deadline, and his full no-trade clause gives him that right. However, with the Twins having essentially dismantled their roster and seemingly heading into a multi-year rebuild, perhaps the Georgia native would reconsider his stance this offseason.