MLB SHOCKER: Braves About to Make the Most Unexpected Trade Deadline Call

The Atlanta Braves may be showing signs of life after taking a series from the Milwaukee Brewers, but it’s too soon to say they’re truly turning things around.

Despite the series win, the Braves still face a steep climb. They sit nine games under .500 and are also nine games out of the final National League wild card spot — with six teams ahead of them in that race. If their position doesn’t improve in the coming weeks, it would make sense for Atlanta to consider moving assets at the MLB trade deadline.

That doesn’t mean a full-on fire sale is likely. Instead, a strategic retooling — shifting focus to 2026 while making selective roster changes — could be on the table. It’s a move typical of teams hovering around 10 games below .500.

On June 12, Jim Bowden of The Athletic predicted that the Braves, along with the Red Sox and Rangers, could take an unusual route at the deadline: not selling off talent, but trading to strengthen their roster for both this season and next. According to Bowden, the Braves are expected to target pitching — both starters and relievers — though bullpen help is clearly the more pressing issue.

While Atlanta’s rotation has been solid, the bullpen has cost the team several winnable games lately — including losses to the Red Sox, Diamondbacks, and Giants. Those missed opportunities have made the bullpen’s shortcomings painfully obvious.

That raises a key question: Can the Braves realistically improve their bullpen without giving up anyone from the major league roster? The elephant in the room is designated hitter Marcell Ozuna, who’s set to become a free agent at the end of the season. Though Ozuna is a central figure in the lineup, Atlanta may opt to trade him if they’re not planning to re-sign him — especially if the playoffs are out of reach.

Ozuna wasn’t mentioned by Bowden, but he could be a potential trade chip to help bring in bullpen arms. That said, the situation is tricky. Contending teams typically aren’t eager to part with relievers, especially during a playoff push.

One thing is clear: the next six weeks will be pivotal for the Braves. Whether they stay in the hunt or pivot toward 2026, an unconventional trade deadline could be in store for Atlanta.