The Atlanta Braves find themselves 6.5 games out of a National League Wild Card spot heading into Wednesday’s action, falling short of preseason expectations and appearing to be potential sellers as the trade deadline approaches.
But general manager Alex Anthopoulos isn’t buying into that narrative. During a segment on 680 The Fan’s “Cellini and Dimino,” he made it clear that the Braves have no plans to start unloading players.
“I expect us to be better… We are not selling,” Anthopoulos emphasized. “We want to be in a position to add at the trade deadline.”
When asked directly about the possibility of trading Chris Sale, Braves general manager Alex Anthopoulos didn’t hesitate with his response.
“Will not happen,” Anthopoulos firmly told the radio hosts.
Given the Braves’ recent struggles, many assumed they might entertain offers for Sale and other key players. Sale, who claimed the National League Cy Young Award last season, has been stellar again this year with a 2.79 ERA over 14 starts. He also carries an \$18 million club option for 2025, making him an appealing asset.
With Sale officially off the trade market, contending teams like the Yankees, Dodgers, and Cubs—who are all searching for rotation upgrades—will have to explore other, less elite options.
Sale would’ve headlined the list of available starters. Now, the top names among likely sellers include Sandy Alcántara and Andrew Heaney. While Alcántara has a Cy Young to his name, he’s been inconsistent this season. Heaney is dependable, but not viewed as a top-of-the-rotation arm.
Teams in need of starting pitching may now be forced to either settle for less or hope that clubs like the Brewers or Diamondbacks decide to move starters such as Freddy Peralta, Zac Gallen, or Merrill Kelly—who could quickly become the most sought-after names if made available.
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