MLB Shocker: Braves Could Trade Away Fan-Favorite Star, Insider Reveals

Struggling Braves Could Deal Marcell Ozuna in Deadline Shocker

In a surprising turn of events, the Atlanta Braves have found themselves among the worst-performing teams in the National League this season. With the team sitting below .500 and outside of the playoff picture, many around the league are beginning to speculate that Atlanta could shift into seller mode ahead of the trade deadline.

If that happens, the Braves possess some intriguing trade assets—including a few star-level players. One name that’s now drawing attention is Marcell Ozuna.

According to Jim Bowden of The Athletic, the Braves could look to move Ozuna in a blockbuster deal with the Texas Rangers, a team currently in need of a power bat to stabilize its inconsistent offense.

“The Rangers’ offense has struggled to find consistency this season,” Bowden wrote. “Ozuna could be the solution they’re looking for if the Braves decide to sell. Atlanta is 5 ½ games out of the final NL wild-card spot, but still five games under .500.”

Ozuna, 34, is putting together another productive season. He’s currently hitting .253/.381/.418 with 11 home runs and 39 RBIs, and he ranks fourth in MLB in walks (52)—putting him on pace for a career-high. Last year, he hit .302 with 39 home runs and 104 RBIs. He’s set to become a free agent after this season, which makes him a high-reward rental for any contender.

A trade to Texas could be exactly what the Rangers need to jumpstart a postseason push. Though acquiring an expiring contract like Ozuna’s carries risk, the potential offensive upside makes the gamble appealing.

From the Braves’ perspective, dealing Ozuna—while painful for fans—makes sense. The team is unlikely to re-sign him this offseason, so capitalizing on his value now could yield a meaningful return. Given his strong production, multiple teams could be interested, giving Atlanta the chance to land a solid package in return.

If the Braves decide to sell, Ozuna may be the first domino to fall in a pivotal deadline for the franchise.