It’s obvious that the Braves really want to trade outfielder Justin Upton. And following the team’s trade of Jason Heyward (and Jordan Walden) for Shelby Miller and Tyrell Jenkins, expectations are set high for the club’s return.
There’s only one problem – teams think that the Braves got overpaid for Heyward, and don’t want to top that package for Upton. CBS’s Jon Heyman explains.
But here’s the problem: Executives also believe the Braves got too much for Heyward, a defensive specialist whose offensive numbers are declining a bit. They see young pitcher Shelby Miller as an overpay, so no one wants to do better than that yet.
The Mariners declined to include Taijuan Walker (who interestingly was offered two years ago for Upton), and the Orioles won’t give up Kevin Gausman.
But what should really worry Braves fans is this – Atlanta is reportedly prioritizing a return of a starting pitcher and/or second baseman for Upton. Ask the Tigers how that worked out last winter.
#Braves still have not heard deal like for J.Upton. Prioritizing SP, 2b. #Royals #Rangers #Padres #Indians all remain interested
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) December 8, 2014
So in short – the Braves want a package equal or better than what they got for Heyward, want starting pitching and second base help, and teams aren’t biting on giving them top-tier, major league ready arms. The winter is obviously still young, but this could end very poorly for Atlanta when the dust has settled.
[CBS]
