The Atlanta Braves traded Michael Petersen to the Miami Marlins for cash considerations on Wednesday night. However, that move could hint at some incoming moves.
Trading Peterson will not yield much, but it will help the Braves try to get under the luxury tax. FanSided's Mark Powell suggested that Marcell Ozuna could be the next player the Braves move on from in an attempt to save money.
"This one is obvious, if only because Ozuna's name has been mentioned in trade rumors since the Braves began to struggle," wrote Powell. "Ozuna has not hit for power as he did in past seasons, but he immediately becomes one of the best trade assets on the market for contenders in need of a big bat. He is also on an expiring contract, and seems set to test free agency this winter. That makes the Braves decision even easier if they have finances in mind."
Ozuna is a three-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger. He could have a strong trade market, but his limitations defensively could be a problem in finding a partner. He is slashing .239/.366/.396 with 13 home runs. His OPS+ is 115.
"Given the status of the Braves farm system currently, they could use help in that regard," wrote Powell. "And as Braves insider David O'Brien mentions, dealing Ozuna could be a blessing in disguise that would allow Atlanta to start both Sean Murphy and Drake Baldwin in the lineup at the same time. Baldwin is an NL Rookie of the Year candidate, though he is admittedly behind the eight ball some thanks to Jacob Misiorowski's All-Star appearance."
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The Braves' season has been very disappointing. With the postseason seemingly out of reach, they could start to focus on next season and yield some sort of return for Ozuna.
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