With the trading deadline arriving in a little over a week, we should take a look at where things stand with the Braves and ask - is there a reasonable chance for them to make the playoffs this year and if not, should the team sell off its high priced players to get some investment in return? The team currently sits 5 games under .500 and 6 games out of 1st. The two would seem unlikely to go together but there you have it. There is a reasonable thought that a hot streak or two such as the one Colorado went on last year could push the Braves to the top.
But their play suggests otherwise and there are a few valuable pieces on the team that can pull much needed players via trade. If we cannot compete this year, we should certainly look to next year. And that's where my gut is heading. With Smoltz down for the year, the starters doing a workable job right now, and basically only Chipper and McCann perfoming for the offense, I just don't see the team pulling it all together. I don't think this means the team cannot compete next year or the year after. There are still crucial pieces left on the team, namely Chipper when healthy, McCann, some lights out closers if they can stay healthy and of course, Hudson and maybe even Smoltz.
One might ask what of Tex? He won't be back next year so it's a moot point. And I am tempted to say he is the one most likely to be traded to pull in some outfield or pitching depth. I wouldn't say I am in complete seller mode as I don't want to trade away potential difference makers this year just to do so. But if someone comes calling with the right package, I think the Braves should seriously look at such a deal. The truth is, we are not competing right now, as sad as it is.
But there is a chance next year. We need outfielders and starting pitching (or will) and goodness knows we have some folks others covet. Frank Wren needs to look at such seriously and not stand on pride. And we certainly don't need to be trading away young talent to try and win it all this year. We tried last year and it did not work. Let's be realistic. I hate to give up on a season, but one must face facts. The Phillies are a better team. Case closed. It's time to look towards the future and if we can find a deal that helps such look brighter, then we should swing it. More later as the deadline nears. That is all.
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