Braves Should Consider Top AL Reliever to Bolster Bullpen at Trade Deadline
The Atlanta Braves must make strategic moves before the trade deadline if they want to stay in contention for the postseason. With multiple gaps on the roster and increased competition from other playoff hopefuls, navigating the market won’t be easy.
One pressing issue is the bullpen. Although there has been some recent improvement, the relief corps remains largely average. In truth, the offense is the team’s most urgent problem, but fixing it seems nearly impossible at the moment.
While upgrading the lineup will be the most difficult challenge for the front office, securing a solid reliever may be more achievable. Several quality bullpen arms are available, though many playoff-bound teams will also be competing for them. Atlanta should consider targeting one of the league’s top-performing relievers from the Tampa Bay Rays.
Pete Fairbanks Emerges as Ideal Bullpen Target for Braves
Pete Fairbanks is in the midst of one of his best seasons, posting a 2.03 ERA across 31 innings pitched. He’s recorded 15 saves, with 14 walks and 26 strikeouts. Although he’s not an overpowering strikeout artist, he effectively limits runs and induces plenty of ground balls.
In a recent article by ESPN’s Kiley McDaniel and Jeff Passan, the Braves were mentioned as a potential trade destination for Fairbanks. The duo also estimated a 60% chance that he’ll be moved before the deadline.
Fairbanks throws a fastball averaging 97.2 mph—placing him in the 91st percentile league-wide. He’s recently adjusted his arm angle to add more movement to his pitches, especially the fastball, and this has also improved the bite on his slider—making for a strong two-pitch combination.
Financially, Fairbanks would be a manageable addition. He’s under contract for $4 million in 2025, the final year of a three-year, $12 million deal with the Rays. There’s also a $7 million team option for 2026, adding even more value to a potential trade.
The only complication is that his performance and team-friendly contract will likely increase his trade cost. He still has room to improve his walk rate and chase/whiff percentages, but overall he’s an excellent bullpen option—and one that won’t come cheap.
What Could the Rays Want in Return?
Tampa Bay has a well-rounded roster, but they may look to upgrade their outfield or catcher positions. Atlanta’s catcher Sean Murphy has been linked to the Rays, though his offensive numbers aren’t much better than Tampa’s current catcher, Danny Jansen. A trade centered around an outfielder seems more plausible.
With Jurickson Profar expected to return soon, the Braves may consider moving someone like Alex Verdugo, though his recent struggles make it unlikely he could headline a deal. Eli White is another outfield option but holds more value as a bench contributor. Including one of them alongside promising prospects might be enough to interest the Rays.
Potential Trade Proposal:
- To Tampa Bay Rays: Pete Fairbanks
- To Atlanta Braves: Alex Verdugo, Hayden Harris, Ian Mejia
