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Braves Eye Trade for Star Pitcher Before 2026

12/25/2025

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Braves Seek Pitching

Alex Anthopoulos, the Atlanta Braves' general manager, says the team needs another impactful starter before the 2026 season.
The Braves may trade Braves catcher Sean Murphy to the Pittsburgh Pirates for pitcher Mitch Keller, who was an All-Star in 2023.
The Braves could sign a veteran catcher to back up Braves emerging star Drake Baldwin.
Other teams interested in a catcher include the Houston Astros and the Tampa Bay Rays.

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Braves Eye Marte

The Atlanta Braves target Ketel Marte of the Arizona Diamondbacks in trades, viewing his contract as appealing.
They are hesitant to trade away pitching prospect Hurston Waldrep due to injury concerns.
The Boston Red Sox pursue trades, including Brendan Donovan of St. Louis Cardinals, despite questions about his fit.
Cincinnati Reds have re-engaged talks for Luis Robert Jr. of the Chicago White Sox, seeking a power-hitting outfielder despite injury history.

History

Historical Context

Major League Baseball expanded to 30 teams in 1998 by adding the Tampa Bay Devil Rays and Arizona Diamondbacks, reshaping the league's structure. This expansion fostered increased competition and trade activity among franchises. Today, the Atlanta Braves are actively pursuing trades, reflecting the ongoing evolution of player acquisitions that began with this significant expansion in the late 20th century.

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Braves Seek Pitching

Alex Anthopoulos, the Atlanta Braves' general manager, says the team needs another impactful starter before the 2026 season.
The Braves may trade Braves catcher Sean Murphy to the Pittsburgh Pirates for pitcher Mitch Keller, who was an All-Star in 2023.
The Braves could sign a veteran catcher to back up Braves emerging star Drake Baldwin.
Other teams interested in a catcher include the Houston Astros and the Tampa Bay Rays.

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