The Atlanta Braves are reportedly eyeing former Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Zach Eflin as a trade deadline addition.
Key Takeaways:
- The Atlanta Braves are reportedly interested in acquiring Zach Eflin from the Tampa Bay Rays to strengthen their starting rotation.
- Eflin, a former Phillies pitcher, has a mixed performance record but could provide valuable depth for the Braves.
- This potential trade could stir strong reactions among Phillies fans due to Eflin’s history with their team.
Braves Target Former Phillies Pitcher Zach Eflin
The Atlanta Braves are reportedly eyeing former Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Zach Eflin as a potential trade acquisition before the MLB trade deadline, according to Bob Nightengale of USA TODAY.
This move comes as the Braves face significant starting pitching concerns, particularly after losing their ace, Spencer Strider, for the season.
Phillies Dominate Early 2024 Season
The Philadelphia Phillies have had an impressive start to the year, with their offense and starting rotation performing exceptionally well.
This success has placed them at the top of Major League Baseball with the best record. The Phillies’ roster, filled with established stars, is determined to make 2024 a successful year.
They currently hold a five-game lead over the Atlanta Braves in the NL East, a division the Braves have dominated for the past five years.
Zach Eflin’s Impactful MLB Journey
Eflin joined the Tampa Bay Rays after signing a three-year, $40 million contract, the largest free-agent deal in the franchise’s history.
He led the American League in wins in 2023 with 16 and had a career-high 177 2/3 innings pitched over 31 starts, finishing with a 3.50 ERA and a 119 ERA+.
Despite a slightly down season in 2024, with a 4.29 ERA over 10 starts, Eflin remains a valuable asset.
His versatility allows him to contribute both as a starter and out of the bullpen. This flexibility is appealing to the Braves as they look to fill the gap left by Strider’s injury.
Eflin’s Rocky History with the Phillies
Eflin’s relationship with Phillies fans is complex. Acquired in December 2014 in a trade that sent beloved shortstop Jimmy Rollins to the Los Angeles Dodgers, Eflin never fully met the high expectations.
Over seven seasons with the Phillies, he posted a 4.49 ERA and a 95 ERA+, leading to mixed feelings among the fanbase.
If Eflin were to join the Braves, it would add another chapter to this saga, potentially stirring strong emotions among Phillies fans who may see him as a threat to their team’s success.
Trade Deadline Stirs Braves’ Interest in Eflin
As the July 30 trade deadline approaches, the Braves’ interest in Eflin could lead to significant roster changes.
With Eflin currently on the IL due to lower back inflammation, his availability for a potential trade remains uncertain.
However, the Braves’ pursuit of Eflin shows their determination to remain competitive in the NL East.
Braves’ Strategy: Eflin Trade and Payroll Considerations
Acquiring Eflin could have payroll implications for the Braves, who are nearly crossing the $277 million luxury tax threshold.
To make the deal feasible, creative solutions, such as involving a third team in the trade or having the Rays absorb part of Eflin’s contract, might be explored.
Regardless of the outcome, the Braves’ interest in Zach Eflin highlights their proactive approach to strengthening their roster as they aim for another World Series title.
As the trade deadline nears, all eyes will be on Atlanta and their potential moves to secure a competitive edge in the NL East.
