Braves predicted to make monster trade for $26M All-Star, former No. 1 pick to pair with Chris Sale

May 28, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Chris Sale (51) pitches against the Boston Red Sox during the first inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images

The Atlanta Braves continue to hold a three-game lead over the Philadelphia Phillies in the NL East with just one week remaining before the All-Star break. It is hard to believe the MLB trade deadline is already approaching.

Atlanta's starting rotation endured a difficult month of June, battling both injuries and inconsistent performances. On Monday morning, it was announced that veteran Martín Pérez was being placed on the injured list.

“Looks like good news for Martin Perez as the Braves list is move to the IL as a left forearm contusion. Top prospects Owen Murphy and JR Ritchie will be in the bullpen this week. Neither is slated to start before the All-Star break,” MLB.com’s Mark Bowman wrote.

The good news for the Braves is that roster reinforcements are expected before the trade deadline. General manager Alex Anthopoulos has already hinted that Atlanta plans to be aggressive.

“I fully expect and hope that we will be engaged in trades come July. I'm not trying to overly excite anybody or promise anything. But if we're playing the way we are right now, we're going to be in there,” Anthopoulos said.

The Braves are almost certain to pursue another starting pitcher before the deadline. Sports Illustrated’s Karl Rasmussen believes Atlanta could target Detroit Tigers right-hander Casey Mize.

“Casey Mize could be a solid rental addition for the Braves before he hits free agency after this season. The 29-year-old has made 10 starts in 2026, logging a 2.58 ERA with 52 strikeouts in 52 1/3 innings. He’s surrendered just three home runs all year and his walk rate (2.2 BB/9) is tied for the lowest of his career. A former top prospect and No. 1 pick in 2018, Mize has had a rather inconsistent MLB career, but he’s been excellent in ‘26 and could be an adequate addition to Atlanta’s rotation with the Tigers out of contention,” Rasmussen wrote.

Mize would provide a significant boost to Atlanta's rotation. Anthopoulos has already traded for the second overall pick from the 2018 MLB Draft in the past, so pursuing the first overall pick from that same draft class would make plenty of sense.

Mize has earned more than $26 million during his career with the Tigers. After this season, he will become a free agent and have the opportunity to sign anywhere. With Atlanta's rotation searching for stability, the Braves could decide to go all-in to acquire Mize for a postseason push.

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