Braves Predicted to Make Trade After Ronald Acuna Jr. News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | Last updated May 27, 2025 12:59 AM ET

The Atlanta Braves are just 25-27 after falling to the San Diego Padres on Sunday. Missing the playoffs last season, Atlanta is currently 8.5 games back of the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies. The NL Wild Card race also has some frontrunners, with the Braves sitting five games back of the final spot.

Under normal circumstances, a team in Atlanta's position could be preparing to sell at the MLB trade deadline. That said, the Braves recently welcomed back superstar outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. who already looks to be in elite form.

Because of this, Atlanta is expected to make a deadline move, but one that bolsters its chances at making a playoff push.

Specifically referencing the news of Acuna's return, along with star right-hander Spencer Strider, Bleacher Report's Kerry Miller predicted Atlanta will get back in the postseason mix and be buyers at the deadline. As for who the Braves could send out in return for a win-now piece, Miller highlighted pitching prospect JR Ritchie.

"They don't have a ton of top prospect capital, but they sure could garner some interest by dangling JR Ritchie's name out there," he wrote. "... Atlanta has so many pitchers in its farm system, though, that it could afford to part with maybe the hottest one, if that's what it takes to not squander this season."

Since returning, Acuna has gone 4-for-12 with two home runs. The 2023 National League MVP is the caliber of player who can help Atlanta climb back in the postseason mix, which is why the Braves are predicted to make a win-now move at some point this season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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