The Atlanta Braves aren’t ready to throw in the towel just yet.
Even though they entered the weekend nine games below .500 and have posted one of the National League’s worst records since mid-May, the Braves are still operating as buyers. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, Atlanta’s front office is actively working the trade market for upgrades at shortstop and in the outfield — two glaring weaknesses that have contributed to the team’s slide despite high expectations.
Braves Caught Between Struggles and Status
With seven consecutive playoff appearances and a top-10 payroll to start the 2025 season, the Braves don’t fit the mold of a team looking to sell, even amid a deep slump. They briefly showed signs of life by taking two of three from the Brewers after a seven-game losing streak, but it wasn’t enough to make up significant ground in the NL Wild Card race — or ease concerns about their deadline direction.
Heyman’s report indicates the Braves still see themselves as buyers, though that could quickly shift if they don’t start winning soon.
Outfield Offense Dragging the Lineup
Atlanta’s outfield production — aside from Ronald Acuña Jr. — has been abysmal, especially with Jurickson Profar serving a suspension for a PED violation. Alex Verdugo, added as a bargain pickup, has struggled to find consistency, slashing just .247/.301/.312. Eli White, once a bright spot in April, has cooled off considerably, batting under .290 since the start of May and fading from the everyday picture.
Perhaps the biggest disappointment has been Michael Harris II. A former Rookie of the Year, Harris has seen his offensive numbers plummet in 2025, hitting just .233/.261/.346 across more than 270 plate appearances. While he remains a defensive asset and still impacts the game with his speed, his bat has gone cold — leaving Acuña to carry the load alone. Profar’s return in July might not be the answer either, as he’s ineligible for the postseason due to his PED suspension.
Shortstop Remains a Major Hole
The situation at shortstop hasn’t improved. After moving on from Orlando Arcia, the Braves handed the job to Nick Allen, a defensive specialist who’s contributed very little at the plate. With a slash line of .234/.309/.269 and no home runs, Allen’s struggles have only amplified the team’s lineup issues, giving them multiple offensive liabilities beyond the outfield.
Braves’ Deadline Plans Hinged on July Results
It’s not just the offense that’s a concern. The bullpen has been shaky, and the rotation took a hit with AJ Smith-Shawver undergoing Tommy John surgery. If Atlanta wants to stay in the playoff hunt, they’ll likely need more than just a bat or two.
Still, the Braves appear committed to staying competitive — at least for now. Their recent track record and playoff pedigree suggest they’ll be patient. But if the losses continue to pile up, GM Alex Anthopoulos could be forced to pivot, possibly entertaining trade offers for short-term pieces like Marcell Ozuna or even veteran names like Chris Sale.
For now, Atlanta’s message is clear: the fight isn’t over yet.
