The Atlanta Braves have battled with starting pitching depth in recent weeks. They had to start some dubious players early in the season, but this issue appeared to be rectified when Atlanta’s Spencer Strider returned from elbow surgery.
However, Strider was just placed on the disabled list again, this time with a hamstring injury sustained during catch play. While this may not seem like a big thing, Strider is expected to miss at least two starts. Hamstring problems are known for lingering for weeks, so it’s difficult to predict when the righty will be completely healthy again.
With that in mind, the Braves may seek to make a big trade for a starting pitcher. The ideal candidate is St. Louis Cardinals ace Sonny Gray. Gray has been one of the league’s greatest pitchers in recent seasons, but he is rarely mentioned among the elite arms. His consistency is difficult to match, and the Braves urgently need a reliable, senior arm like Gray right now. Gray’s deal is rather hefty, making it difficult for St. Louis to sell him.
With that in mind, the Cardinals would most likely accept less prospect capital in exchange or pay down a portion of the righty’s deal in order to acquire stronger prospects. In any case, the Braves should contact St. Louis about a major trade. Atlanta cannot afford to fall even further behind in the National League.
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