As the MLB trade deadline draws closer, the Atlanta Braves may look to upgrade at shortstop after inconsistent production from Ha-Seong Kim and a recent downturn from Jorge Mateo.
Atlanta has shuffled players around the infield throughout the season, and adding a dependable everyday shortstop could provide much-needed stability on both sides of the ball.
One player who could fit that need is Los Angeles Angels infielder Zach Neto. With the Angels expected to explore selling pieces before the deadline, Neto could emerge as an attractive target.
The young shortstop is under team control for several more seasons, making him a potential long-term answer for Atlanta rather than a short-term rental.
A potential trade framework could see the Braves acquire Neto in exchange for infielder Jim Jarvis and pitching prospects Owen Murphy, John Gil, and Ethan Bagwell.
While that would represent a significant return, Neto’s value is elevated by his youth, versatility, and team control through the 2030 season.
For Atlanta, Neto’s ability to handle multiple infield positions would add flexibility while also strengthening a lineup seeking more consistent production.
His offensive upside and defensive reliability could allow the Braves to solidify the shortstop position for years while also providing depth across the infield.
From the Angels’ perspective, moving Neto would likely require a package centered around high-upside prospects capable of helping accelerate a future rebuild.
A player such as Murphy, one of Atlanta’s top young arms, could be a key piece in any negotiations.
Ultimately, acquiring Neto would be an aggressive move by the Braves, signaling a commitment to both their current playoff push and their long-term future.
Whether such a deal materializes will depend on how willing Atlanta is to part with premium prospects and whether the Angels decide Neto is available at all.
