Earlier this week, I proposed a hypothetical trade that could help solve the Atlanta Braves’ pitching woes by acquiring Cincinnati Reds right-hander Nick Martinez. The Braves are in need of rotation stability, and Martinez could be the perfect short-term fix. The full trade idea looks like this:
Braves receive: RHP Nick Martinez
Reds receive: INF Nacho Alvarez Jr., RHP JR Ritchie
The Reds, surprisingly flush with starting pitching depth, may be open to dealing from that surplus. Their current rotation features Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, Brady Singer, Andrew Abbott, and Martinez, with top prospects like Rhett Lowder, Chase Petty, and Chase Burns waiting in the wings.
With Martinez on an expiring contract, he becomes a logical trade candidate. For the Braves, who have struggled with consistency in their rotation, adding a reliable veteran like Martinez makes a lot of sense—even if it means parting with two promising prospects.
Atlanta would be sending back Nacho Alvarez Jr., a skilled infielder who could become a long-term option at third base for Cincinnati, and JR Ritchie, a young pitcher with a well-rounded repertoire. Even with Spencer Strider expected back soon, the Braves can’t afford to rely on inconsistent arms like Grant Holmes and Bryce Elder if they want to stay competitive this season.
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