The Atlanta Braves find themselves facing a pressing issue at shortstop, yet they’ve failed to make any significant moves to address it. In fact, it seems they have not taken substantial action to resolve any of their concerns this offseason.
Last season, the Braves were considered a fringe postseason team, and it appears they’ve only grown weaker this winter. One of their key starting pitchers, Max Fried, has already departed for the New York Yankees, and there are increasing signs that veteran Charlie Morton could be leaving Atlanta as well.
There were whispers that the Braves were pursuing shortstop Willy Adames in free agency, but they ultimately fell short. Adames recently signed with the San Francisco Giants, leaving Atlanta in need of a solution at the shortstop position. One potential avenue to explore is a blockbuster trade with the Toronto Blue Jays for All-Star shortstop Bo Bichette.
Despite a down year in 2024, Bichette continues to draw considerable trade interest from several teams, including the Braves. During the 2024 season, Bichette’s numbers were less than stellar, as he posted a .225/.277/.322 slash line with just four home runs. However, this is still the same player who posted an OPS+ of 120 or higher in each of his first five seasons. There is no denying that Bichette possesses considerable talent and remains a valuable trade asset.
For the Braves to acquire Bichette, a trade package involving key players such as 25-year-old right-hander Bryce Elder could be a possibility. Elder was exceptional in his first 40 starts in the big leagues but struggled mightily in his last 10 outings. While his stuff may not be elite, Elder has proven to be a solid contributor, and his youth makes him an intriguing option for the Blue Jays. He could serve as a reclamation project for a Toronto team in dire need of reliable starting pitching.
The Braves could also offer minor league infielder Ivan Alvarez, who impressed with a .284/.391/.401 slash line in the minors last season. Although he had a rough start in the big leagues, Alvarez could be a candidate to fill the shortstop role for Toronto. However, the Blue Jays might see Orelvis Martinez, another top prospect, as the future at shortstop, which could affect Alvarez’s role in the trade.
Another potential piece in the trade package is left-handed pitcher Jared Dodd, whose strong command and movement make him an intriguing arm despite a lack of overpowering velocity. Dodd hasn’t been considered one of the top prospects in recent years, but if he can refine his game in Toronto, he could develop into a big-league arm in the near future.
In the end, the Braves are in desperate need of a talented infielder to bolster their lineup, and Bichette offers the kind of upside that could transform their shortstop position. At worst, he could provide a steady presence similar to what Orlando Arcia has offered. At best, Bichette could reclaim his status as one of the league’s top shortstops, elevating the Braves’ roster to new heights. This trade has the potential to be a game-changer for Atlanta’s championship aspirations.
How This blockbuster Braves-Blue Jays trade would solve Atlanta’s shortstop problem for good
