The Atlanta Braves are exploring another rotation upgrade ahead of Monday's MLB trade deadline, with veteran ace Jacob deGrom emerging as a potential target.
According to MLB insider Jon Heyman, Atlanta has contacted the Texas Rangers about the two-time Cy Young Award winner as the club searches for additional starting pitching.
The interest comes one day after the Braves placed Reynaldo López on the 15-day injured list with left knee inflammation. While Atlanta remains atop the National League East at 67-45, the club appears intent on strengthening its rotation for the postseason.
Heyman reported the Rangers are listening to offers as they evaluate their direction before the deadline, though completing a deal for deGrom would be complicated. The 38-year-old owns a full no-trade clause, meaning he would have to approve any move.
Despite recent injury concerns, deGrom remains one of baseball's premier starters when healthy. He has gone 7-7 with a 3.96 ERA, 135 strikeouts and a 1.14 WHIP across 113.2 innings in 21 starts this season, though he was recently slowed by a left glute strain and struggled in his latest outing against the Houston Astros.
Atlanta has already added Bailey Falter to bolster its pitching depth, but López's injury has created another question mark in the rotation. Pursuing a frontline starter such as deGrom would further reinforce a staff expected to carry the club through October.
Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
The Braves entered Monday holding an 8.5-game lead over the Philadelphia Phillies in the NL East, putting them firmly in buyer territory ahead of the deadline. Adding another established starter would complement an active major league rotation led by Chris Sale, Martín Pérez, and Grant Holmes as Atlanta prepares for the stretch run.
Whether talks gain traction remains to be seen. DeGrom's no-trade protection and remaining financial commitment present significant obstacles, but Atlanta's reported interest signals the front office continues to explore every opportunity to improve before the deadline.
ALSO SEE:
- Poll: How Do You Feel About Dodgers Getting Tarik Skubal?
- MLB Home Run Predictions Today: Best HR Prop Bets for Monday, Aug. 3
- NRFI and YRFI MLB Bets Today: Best First-Inning Predictions for Monday, Aug. 3
