/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47782323/usa-today-8819493.0.jpg)
Earlier today, the Braves interest in the Cubs' Jorge Soler in their attempts to acquire a young, impact bat came to light. That was the latest in a string of rumors that started where the Diamondbacks called asking about Shelby Miller. The Braves responded with wanting AJ Pollock back in the deal and the Diamondbacks balked.
As it turns out, the Braves have not stopped in their pursuit of Pollock, although its not exactly clear if they are actually IMPROVING their offer.
#Braves keep trying for #DBacks’ Pollock, sources tell me and @jonmorosi. Initial offer was S. Miller for Pollock straight up. AZ said no.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 2, 2015
#Braves came back with Miller and Arodys Vizcaino for Pollock and Aaron Blair. AZ again said no.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 2, 2015
Given that Aaron Blair is their #3 prospect, its understandable that the Diamondbacks didn't exactly warm to the second deal. Vizcaino is certainly valuable, but getting AJ Pollock back is a great deal of value in addition to adding yet another high-end pitching prospect. That said, the Braves may simply be responding to market forces.
With the recent deals signed by Jordan Zimmermann and David Price, it is becoming readily apparent that the free agent market is getting more and more expensive. Zack Greinke is already asking for more per year than David Price's deal and Johnny Cueto just turned down a $120 million contract over six years (from the Diamondbacks interestingly enough). As a result, a young, good, inexpensive starter who still has three years of team control is going to be a hot commodity. It looks like the Braves are treating him as such.