Atlanta Braves chase top starter as Joe Ryan trade rumors heat up

The Atlanta Braves are in the mix for Minnesota Twins right-hander Joe Ryan as MLB trade deadline buzz intensifies.

What’s the latest with the Atlanta Braves?

The Braves beat St. Louis 3-4 on July 12, keeping their National League playoff push alive. They sit third in the NL with a 55-40 record and have won five of their last six.

Why Joe Ryan matters for the Atlanta Braves

Ryan is the top starter on the block if the Twins move him, and the Braves are one of the teams circling his name. Atlanta needs rotation depth behind Spencer Strider and Max Fried, and Ryan’s track record makes him a prime target.

What the bidding war looks like

Philadelphia Phillies are also in on Ryan, setting up a potential showdown with the Braves. Both teams have the prospect pieces and payroll flexibility to land the right-hander before the August 3 deadline.

What comes next for the Atlanta Braves?

General manager Alex Anthopoulos has to decide whether to go all-in on a rental starter or stick with internal options. The Braves’ bullpen has been shaky, but adding Ryan would shore up the rotation for October.

The Braves’ next move could define their summer.