Braves get fun update on trade deadline with big Tarik Skubal implication

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The Atlanta Braves are sitting atop the NL East, but the Philadelphia Phillies are hot on their tail, and it's clear the Braves can't keep the roster as-is if they want to win the division.

One of the biggest issues with the team right now is the starting rotation. Chris Sale is healthy and great, but outside of him, the rotation is banged up, struggling, and very much in question. Atlanta needs another starter or two at the deadline.

MLB.com's Mark Bowman named a starting pitcher as the team's top need at the deadline, but also shared a note on how the Braves have the means, financially and capital-wise, to trade for any pitcher, which would, of course, include Tarik Skubal.

Braves trade deadline rumor has huge Tarik Skubal implication

"They have the financial flexibility and prospect capital necessary to make a run for any available starter," Bowman writes.

If there's a starting pitcher who's made available for trade at the 2026 MLB trade deadline, the Braves will have the means to add such a player.

Skubal is made available by the Detroit Tigers? The Braves will be one of his top suitors. Joe Ryan of the Minnesota Twins, Freddy Peralta of the New York Mets, Robbie Ray, or even Logan Webb of the San Francisco Giants, the Braves have the resources for a deal.

MORE: 3 reasons why Braves are perfect fit for Tarik Skubal at MLB trade deadline

There isn't a pitcher who could become available for trade that the Braves wouldn't be able to strongly pursue. Even if Paul Skenes became available, the Braves could mortgage their farm system and have a compelling offer on the table.

But, Skubal, Ryan, Peralta, Ray, Michael Wacha, Seth Lugo, Reid Detmers, Jose Soriano, and plenty of other starters are their realistic trade options.

Regardless of who it is, the Braves should be able to make a serious push for them this summer. As long as Alex Anthopoulos is willing to land a top starter, the Braves should be able to do so.

Braves fans should be excited for the trade deadline this year, as there's a chance their favorite team will wind up acquiring one of the best pitchers available at the trade deadline, and maybe even Major League Baseball.