The Atlanta Braves have built a reputation for their aggressive trade strategies, particularly under the leadership of general manager Alex Anthopoulos. As the free-agent market becomes increasingly competitive and expensive, it seems logical for the Braves to once again explore blockbuster trades as a way to bolster their roster this offseason. However, there’s a significant hurdle: the Braves’ farm system is ranked among the weakest in Major League Baseball, limiting their prospect capital. Despite this, they still possess intriguing assets that could attract interest from potential trade partners.
One such asset is Drake Baldwin, a promising prospect at the catcher position. With Sean Murphy secured as the team’s long-term option behind the plate, Baldwin could become expendable and serve as a valuable trade chip. The Braves might find his inclusion in trade talks an enticing way to acquire much-needed talent, especially given the scarcity of skilled catchers across the league.
Additionally, Atlanta has a few young pitching prospects who could spark conversations about acquiring a high-profile player. Among these is A.J. Smith-Shawver, identified by MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand as a potential trade piece. Feinsand also noted that several teams have expressed interest in right-hander Hurston Waldrep, the Braves’ No. 3 prospect. However, Waldrep’s untapped potential and his status as a former first-round pick may place him in the “untouchable” category for Atlanta.
Feinsand elaborates: “Many teams have unsuccessfully tried to land the club’s No. 3 prospect, RHP Hurston Waldrep, who might fall into the untouchable category. No. 5 prospect C Drake Baldwin is Atlanta’s second-most-attractive trade piece, but following Travis d’Arnaud’s departure, the Braves might be hesitant to reduce depth at this premium position. But you have to give to get, so Smith-Shawver (the Braves’ No. 2 prospect and No. 97 on MLB Pipeline’s Top 100) could be used as a trade chip, as Atlanta needs an outfielder, another veteran starter, and a high-leverage reliever.”
The Braves’ needs are clear: an impact outfielder, a reliable veteran starter, and a high-leverage bullpen arm. While Smith-Shawver’s inclusion in a trade could address one or more of these needs, Waldrep’s value adds complexity to any negotiations. Although Waldrep struggled during his brief major league debut, allowing 13 runs in just seven innings across two starts, his success at Triple-A Gwinnett—where he posted a 3.38 ERA over 40 innings—highlights his potential. For a team like Atlanta, which prides itself on developing young talent, trading away a pitcher with Waldrep’s upside could be seen as a significant gamble.
Anthopoulos has a strong track record of knowing which prospects to trade and which to retain, with few missteps along the way. The decision to include William Contreras in the deal for Sean Murphy stands out as a rare exception, though Contreras was no longer a prospect at the time of the trade. This history gives reason to trust the Braves’ front office in evaluating the value of players like Waldrep and Smith-Shawver.
That said, if Waldrep is deemed untouchable, it could hinder the Braves’ ability to land a star player through trade. Without his inclusion, the team’s limited prospect pool might not be enough to secure top-tier talent, making it more challenging for Atlanta to address their roster needs effectively.
Ultimately, the Braves’ offseason moves will hinge on how far they are willing to go in leveraging their young assets. While every prospect has a price, Anthopoulos and his team must carefully balance short-term aspirations with long-term sustainability to ensure Atlanta remains a powerhouse in the National League.