Atlanta Braves: Buyers
Why: The Braves are in the thick of the wild card race, at 43-39. The team is only six games back, and could still compete for the division with the right moves at the deadline.
Who they need: The offense was a problem last season, but the Braves have really turned things around this year. Even Andrelton Simmons -- known primarily for his great glove-work -- is hitting .306/.348/.462. Offensively, the team is set.
The rotation, however, is a different story. Tim Hudson and Tommy Hanson both have been solid, but the rest of their rotation mates have struggled. With Brandon Beachy’s injury, the team’s rotation is really in need of some help.
The bullpen is also an area of concern. Craig Kimbrel has been exceptional again, but that’s about it. With Jonny Venters on the disabled list, the team could use another high-leverage reliever to step in and hold a lead.
Who they can deal: Between Julio Teheran, Randall Delgado and Mike Minor, the team has three young pitchers they can put on the block. All three have relatively bright futures, and could be used to bring in an established veteran.
The team may elect to just keep those players. The rotation is the area of biggest need, and Delgado and Teheran could be used as reinforcements. Delgado has made 16 starts for the Braves this season, and he could improve as he gets more experience in the majors.
Who is available: The team has been mentioned in rumors for Cole Hamels and Zack Greinke. Going after either guy might mean the Braves will have to part with one of their pitching prospects.
If the team doesn’t want to do that, there are plenty of second-tier starters available. Brandon McCarthy, Bartolo Colon or Kevin Millwood all would help take some pressure off the younger guys.
The team could also look for help in the bullpen. Huston Street, Grant Balfour and Rafael Betancourt all make sense.
Verdict: The Braves are going to be competitors for the playoffs. The hitting has come around, but the pitching could use some reinforcements. The team has the pieces to go out and try to make a splash, but could also elect to keep their strongest prospects and hope that a stop-gap gets the job done this season.
