Just a few days ago reports surfaced suggesting the Atlanta Braves have no intentions to trade closer Craig Kimbrel. Nothing has changed in that regard as Kimbrel will open the season in Atlanta. But if the Braves are to struggle? That’s where things get murky and according to the Boston Globe, the Atlanta Braves could entertain trade offers for the closer.
Executives we have spoken to believe GM John Hart will be enticed to deal the elite closer by the trading deadline if the Braves struggle in a tough division in which the Nationals and Marlins could be very good.
While there were no teams linked to Craig Kimbrel, the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays and Detroit Tigers were all suggested as teams in need of an elite closer with higher level prospects who could be of interest to the Braves.
It seems difficult to picture Atlanta giving up on Kimbrel, even in a down season, though we’ve seen how easy good closers can be replaced as the league seemingly transitions from a position that used to be an anchor not that long ago.
Of course, Craig Kimbrel isn’t your run-of-the-mill closer either, so any team looking to acquire the talented right-hander will be forced to pay a pretty penny.
