Braves-Cubs trade pitch sees Atlanta land Nico Hoerner for big-name reliever

Jared Bloom

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Braves-Cubs trade pitch sees Atlanta land Nico Hoerner for big-name reliever image

The Atlanta Braves were coming off a season where injuries played a big role. They failed to make the postseason for the first time since the 2017 season. 

With hopes of going into the new season with newfound health, that quickly turned sour. Not long after signing Ha-Seong Kim to a one-year deal, the slugger injured himself and will be out for the next four-to-five months. 

Kim slipped and fell on ice in his native Korea and tore a tendon in his right middle finger. He had successful surgery, but it certainly puts Atlanta back a bit. 

MORE: Braves predicted to sign $63M AL wins leader, All-Star to pair with Chris Sale, Spencer Strider

Braves-Cubs trade pitch sees Atlanta land Nico Hoerner for big-name reliever 

Atlanta does have Maurucio Dubon, who could slot in at shortstop, but that should be their last option. Atlanta should be looking for a replacement, and with not many options available on the open market, they could turn to a trade. 

Bleacher Report's Kerry Miller suggests Atlanta could deal Robert Suarez to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for Nico Hoerner. 

"The year before Chicago signed Dansby Swanson, Hoerner was their primary shortstop, and a darn good one. And with Ha-Seong Kim out indefinitely with a torn tendon in his right middle finger, maybe Hoerner fills that void for the Braves? Coincidentally, Atlanta has two quality closers on its roster, while the lack of an established closer is maybe the Cubs' biggest question mark."

Chicago could certainly use a lockdown late-inning guy, as the question is out on Daniel Palancia. It would be a straight-up move and could greatly benefit both teams. 

While Atlanta would love to see Suarez stay, it would be much better for the club to instead part ways with him and acquire someone they feel confident can be the guy up the middle defensively.

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