Braves: Outfield trade target that makes the most sense

With the free agent market thinning, the Braves may need to turn to the trade market to address the glaring void in their outfield, and the Chicago Cubs could emerge as an intriguing trade partner.

Reports surfaced last week that the Cubs are determined to move both Cody Bellinger and Seiya Suzuki. While unloading Bellinger’s contract is undoubtedly their top priority, it’s a tough sell. He’s set to earn $27.5 million next season, which isn’t egregious given his upside, but his 2026 player option worth $25 million makes his deal significantly less attractive. It’s hard to envision the Braves taking that gamble, no matter how dire their situation.

Seiya Suzuki, however, is a far more appealing option. The Japanese outfielder has been rock solid since coming to the MLB, slashing an impressive .283 with an .824 OPS across three seasons. He’s coming off a career-year, hitting .283 with 21 homers and an .848 OPS, and at 30 years old, he’s in his prime. For a team trying to contend, Suzuki seems like exactly the type of player the Cubs would want to keep in their lineup.

However, Chicago’s recent acquisition of Kyle Tucker has created a logjam in their outfield. Complicating matters further, Suzuki has made it clear he doesn’t want to transition into a DH role at this stage of his career. Ideally, the Cubs would prefer to move Bellinger, but unless they’re willing to eat a significant chunk of his contract, that may prove unrealistic.

That leaves Suzuki as a prime trade candidate, and the Braves would be a near-perfect landing spot. The real question, however, is whether Atlanta can match Chicago’s asking price. By acquiring Tucker, the Cubs have signaled their intent to compete next season, meaning they’re likely to seek major league-ready talent rather than prospects. A promising arm like AJ Smith-Shawver might pique their interest, but Chicago could demand something more established in return.

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Photo: Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire

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