Braves interested in Manny Machado but focused on acquiring bullpen help

We are less than a month away from the trade deadline and the rumor mill is starting to churn. Among players with the most buzz is Baltimore shortstop Manny Machado who is likely the biggest name available. The Diamondbacks and others are rumored to the hottest on the trail of Machado but the Atlanta Braves are also interested according to a report by MLB Network’s Jon Morosi.

Obviously, any team within shouting distance of the playoffs would be interested in acquiring a player of Machado’s caliber. However, it is highly unlikely that Atlanta would be willing to part with the necessary prospect capital that it would take to satisfy Baltimore’s needs. Especially given Machado’s status as a rental player who will enter free agency this offseason.

The second part of Morosi’s report is more relevant as the Braves are apparently focused on adding controllable relievers to a bullpen that has been a source of frustration of late. It also suggests that Atlanta would be more comfortable trading prospects if they are getting a reliever back that could help the team not only this season but in future seasons as well.