The Atlanta Braves are in urgent need of outfield help. With Ronald Acuña Jr. still sidelined while recovering from knee surgery, the team turned to Jurickson Profar during the offseason, offering him a rare multi-year contract. However, Profar’s situation took a major hit when he was suspended for half the season due to a performance-enhancing drug violation, with the suspension extending into the postseason if the Braves make it that far.
This left the Braves struggling to fill the production lost from both Acuña Jr. and Profar. Their lineup has been faltering, as none of their bench outfielders have been able to contribute positively. Atlanta was forced to call up Alex Verdugo to hit leadoff and play daily, despite the fact that no team had given him a contract earlier in the year. Similarly, Jarred Kelenic has also been underperforming.
Given the current need for outfield help, the Braves may be able to solve part of their dilemma from within their own organization.
While some might urge the Braves to pursue an external trade for a player like Luis Robert Jr., the team has a promising prospect who could step in and provide much-needed assistance: Carlos Rodríguez. Ranked among the Braves’ top 30 prospects, Rodríguez has been dominating at the plate this season, hitting .314 with a .355 on-base percentage and only a 15 percent strikeout rate. While he’s unlikely to hit 30 home runs annually, he would bring a solid bat to the lineup.
Rodríguez is also an excellent fielder with good speed and a strong arm, and his offensive production should translate well to the major leagues.
Rather than hastily pursuing a trade, especially with the Braves’ strong position in the National League, it might be more beneficial for the team to address their outfield needs by giving their prospects a shot.
