The Braves are in need of bullpen reinforcements this offseason, particularly with A.J. Minter, Jesse Chavez, and Luke Jackson approaching free agency. Although they had some strong options in their current setup, this changed dramatically with Joe Jimenez’s recent knee surgery, which could sideline him for up to a year, leaving significant gaps in the bullpen.
While Atlanta can explore free agency for new arms, history indicates that general manager Alex Anthopoulos is more inclined to pursue trades instead of engaging in bidding wars for free agents. Two notable players are expected to be available this offseason.
Devin Williams is considered an elite reliever and is likely to be traded by the Brewers as he enters the final year of his contract. With impressive stats of a 1.70 ERA and 14.6 strikeouts per nine innings since 2020, his talent comes at a high prospect cost. However, being on a one-year deal could make him more feasible for the Braves, especially given their current bullpen needs.
Ryan Helsley, another high-caliber closer entering his final contract year, is with the Cardinals, a team not expected to contend next season. Although not quite on Williams’ level, he has a strong track record with a 1.83 ERA and 12.1 strikeouts per nine innings over the past three seasons.
While there are few truly transformative relievers in baseball, both Williams and Helsley stand out. Acquiring either could significantly enhance the Braves’ bullpen without requiring additional moves. With Minter’s uncertain future and Jimenez’s injury, it is likely that Anthopoulos will again invest heavily in the relief pitching core.
The two key trade targets for the Braves this offseason are Devin Williams and Ryan Helsley
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