MLB Rumors: Insider Names 3x All-Star As Braves' Best Trade Candidate

The Atlanta Braves entered 2025 with postseason expectations, but a disastrous 28-37 start has flipped the script. 

With Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider unable to turn the tide, and the team floundering in fourth place in the NL East, executives may pivot toward selling at the trade deadline. One name stands out: Marcell Ozuna.

Buster Olney and Jeff Passan talking about Marcell Ozuna:

“Would be interesting to see Marcell Ozuna in the middle of the lineup of a team like Cleveland. Drop an established hitter into that group. I mean Cleveland would be such a good fit for him.”#GuardsBall pic.twitter.com/pWdkoAXREY

— Brady Hamilton (@BradyH_216) June 9, 2025

Ozuna, 34, is in the final year of his five-year, $80 million deal and remains one of MLB’s top power bats. He’s slashing .257/.397/.430 with 10 home runs and an .827 OPS. While he’s been limited to DH duties since 2024, his right-handed power makes him a coveted piece for playoff-bound teams. 

According to MLB insiders like Robert Murray and Mark Bowman, Ozuna could be Atlanta’s most valuable trade chip, especially since he likely wouldn’t cost a contending team its top prospects.

Feels like a fever dream watching Marcell Ozuna run this fast pic.twitter.com/AhsmtRglTQ

— Aram Leighton (@AramLeighton8) May 28, 2025

With a rebuild potentially looming, trading Ozuna would be a strategic move for GM Alex Anthopoulos, one that could net Atlanta a respectable return. 

The Seattle Mariners, Houston Astros, San Diego Padres, and San Francisco Giants are among the teams that may dial in.

Photo Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images