Braves trade for former No. 2 pick in vital move to fix glaring problem, release World Series champ

The Atlanta Braves have lost six of their last seven games, marking their most disappointing stretch of the season so far.

The Braves have dealt with several issues, whether it's injuries, a starting rotation that hasn't performed as well lately, or a lineup that has gone cold. At the plate, no position has struggled more than catcher since Drake Baldwin was injured.

“Braves catchers are 1-for-40 over the past 13 games,” MLB writer Jason Foster posted.

Fortunately for Atlanta, Baldwin has returned as the primary catcher, which should provide a boost. When Ha-Seong Kim is in the lineup, it often feels like he and whoever is behind the plate are automatic outs. The good news is that general manager Alex Anthopoulos has already hinted that the Braves will be active at the trade deadline.

“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.

On Thursday night, Anthopoulos made his first significant move ahead of the deadline. The Braves acquired catcher Joey Bart while designating former World Series champion Sandy León for assignment.

“The Braves acquired catcher Joey Bart from the Pittsburgh Pirates for right-handed pitcher Hunter Stratton on Thursday night. Atlanta made room for Bart on the 40-man roster by designating catcher Sandy León for assignment. The Pirates assigned Stratton to Triple-A Indianapolis. Bart was batting .259 with two homers, six RBIs and a .670 OPS in 21 games with Pittsburgh. He grew up in the Atlanta suburbs and played college ball in the city at Georgia Tech before being selected No. 2,” ESPN wrote.

León simply couldn't find any success at the plate, batting below .100 for the Braves. Meanwhile, Bart continues the trend of hometown acquisitions that Anthopoulos has become known for making.

As a former No. 2 overall pick, there is no question the talent is there. Sometimes all a player needs is an opportunity in the right situation, and returning home could provide exactly that. Atlanta desperately needs more production from its lineup, and the organization is hoping Bart can help provide it.

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