The National League East has become much more competitive over the past few weeks. At one point, it seemed like the Braves were just going to run away with the division. But recently, a few teams have closed in on their lead, making it much more competitive. This should make things much more interesting heading into the trade deadline. We should see a flurry of activity from all the teams in the East. But what should the goal of each NL East team be during the trade deadline?
What Each NL East Team Should Target At The Deadline
Atlanta Braves, Another Front-Line Starter: As mentioned before, the Braves were running away with the division at one point. So much so they had the best record in baseball at one point. But with them losing 11 of their last 15, they now hold only a two-and-a-half-game lead. If the Braves want to rebuild their lead over the rest of the division, they need another ace-type pitcher. Someone they can pair with Chris Sale and create a dominant one-two punch. They could be a landing spot for Tarik Skubal, as they have the prospects and the money to get it done. But if the Tigers decided to hold on to them, they can pivot to Joe Ryan. He is someone they can rely on for this season and next.
Philadelphia Phillies, Corner Outfielder: Ever since the Phillies fired Rob Thompson, they have been the hottest team in baseball. They are 47-37 and have held the top wild card spot in the NL. But while they have turned the season around, there are still major question marks on the roster, specifically their corner outfield. With Adolis Garcia suffering a season-ending lat injury, they need someone to fill that hole. One player they can look for is Jo Adell. He is currently posting the best average of his career and can bring some pop into this lineup. He can be protection for Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper. They could also look at JJ Bleday if the Reds decide to sell. He is currently in the middle of his best offensive season, having a career-high 129 OPS+.
Miami Marlins, Stay Put: A few weeks ago, the Marlins seemed like a lock to be sellers at the trade deadline. But then they had a historic month of June. Over the last month, they have posted a record of 20-6, good for a .769 win percentage. This is the best win percentage they have posted in a month and the second-most wins they have had in a month. They are now only in a mathematical tie with the St. Louis Cardinals for the last wild card spot in the National League. The issue with the Marlins is that we do not know how real this run is. Is this just an extended hot streak, or something that they can sustain for the rest of the season? The best thing they can do is to just stay pat at the deadline and let the rest of the season play out.
Washington Nationals, Move Expiring Contracts: The Nationals are in a bit of a tricky spot. They are 44-43 and are currently two and a half games out of the last wild card spot in the National League. But their core is very young and is still learning how to be big leaguers. In a market with not many sellers, why not sell some experienced contracts at higher prices in order to make the team better for 2027? Guys like Foster Griffin, Zack Littell, and Trevor Williams are all on expiring deals and will not be a part of the team’s future plans. Why not move them for assets that can help you win in the future? You could also see someone like CJ Abrams get moved. However, it would take a Godfather-type offer for him to be on a different team on August 4th.
New York Mets, Trade Their Starter: This has been a miserable season for the New York Mets. While many saw them as a playoff team entering the season, they have been one of the worst teams in the league. The 12-game losing streak at the start of the season sunk their season and has them in the basement of the NL East. The best course of action would be to trade some of their starting pitchers to add prospects to the mid-level of their farm system. Freddy Peralta may have struggled, but he is still seen as a top 30 pitcher in baseball. At the very least, he can net the Mets what they gave up to get him. Clay Holmes also has tremendous value. He may have missed the last month and a half, but he’s been very efficient this season.
