The Atlanta Braves are in desperate need of outfield depth after another season-ending ACL injury to Ronald Acuña Jr. We have seen positive results from Jarred Kelenic in the leadoff spot, but Michael Harris is banged up and Adam Duvall is not an everyday starter at this point in his career.
A more optimistic fan might point to Chicago White Sox All-Star Luis Robert Jr. as a potential target, but Alex Anthopoulos generally takes a more modest approach at the trade deadline. Atlanta has been busy on the phones, however, and there’s reason to believe Anthopoulos will maneuver to boost the Braves’ stagnant offense.
If the Braves aren’t able to land quality depth on the trade front, Atlanta could turn to a familiar free agent. On Wednesday, the Washington Nationals requested unconditional release waivers on Eddie Rosario. The 32-year-old has struggled at the plate since inking a split contract in March. As the Nats kick the can down the road once again, there’s not much point in keeping an aging vet who isn’t contributing in a meaningful way.
The Nationals have requested unconditional release waivers on Eddie Rosario.
— Nationals Communications (@NationalsComms) July 3, 2024
That opens the door for a reunion in Atlanta. Rosario spent the previous 2.5 seasons with the Braves, emerging as a postseason hero during their 2021 World Series run. There was less to celebrate in 2023, when Rosario’s struggles put him behind Kevin Pillar in the pecking order, but he’s still a beloved cult figure in Atlanta sports. With so much going wrong, Braves fans ought to welcome him back…