Unironically, the Atlanta Braves are set to face off against the Athletics in a highly anticipated three-game series this week. While this may just seem like another regular season matchup between two talented teams, there is a lot more at stake than meets the eye. The pitching matchup for Wednesday’s game is particularly intriguing, as it will feature Chris Sale of the Braves going up against Luis Severino of the Athletics. But could this game also serve as a tryout for Severino’s future team?
In a recent article by Zachary D. Rymer for Bleacher Report, he explores the possibility of Severino joining the Braves through a trade. This speculation comes after the Athletics acquired the two-time All-Star and $45 million ace in a blockbuster trade with the New York Yankees. While the Athletics may have landed a major talent in Severino, there are already talks of them potentially using him as trade bait to acquire other players. And the Braves seem like a perfect fit.
The Braves, who currently sit atop the NL East division, are in need of a strong starting pitcher to solidify their rotation. While they have a talented lineup and a solid bullpen, their starting pitching has been a bit shaky at times. This is where Severino comes in. The 26-year-old right-hander has been a dominant force in the league since his debut in 2015, posting a career 3.39 ERA and 1.16 WHIP. He also boasts an impressive 10.5 strikeouts per nine innings, making him a valuable asset to any team.
But why would the Braves be interested in trading for Severino when they already have a solid rotation? Well, for one, they have the resources to do so. The Braves have a strong farm system and a surplus of young talent that could entice the Athletics to make a deal. Additionally, with their star pitcher Mike Soroka out for the season due to injury, the Braves could use another top-tier starter to fill the void and give them a better chance at making a deep playoff run.
As for Severino, a trade to the Braves could be just what he needs to revitalize his career. After a stellar 2018 season where he finished third in the AL Cy Young Award voting, Severino has struggled with injuries and inconsistency. He has yet to make his debut for the Athletics this season due to a groin injury and has a career-high 8.50 ERA in just over 10 innings pitched. A change of scenery and a chance to compete for a playoff spot could be just what he needs to get back on track.
But what about Wednesday’s game? Could it really serve as a tryout for Severino’s future team? While it may not be the sole determining factor, it certainly could play a role in the decision-making process for both teams. With Sale and Severino both taking the mound, it will be a showcase of two talented pitchers that could potentially be traded for each other in the near future.
Regardless of the outcome of Wednesday’s game, one thing is for sure: the Braves and Athletics both have a lot to gain from a potential trade involving Severino. The Braves could solidify their rotation and make a strong push for the playoffs, while the Athletics could acquire young talent to help build for the future. Only time will tell if this potential trade will become a reality, but for now, fans can look forward to an exciting matchup between two talented teams and two talented pitchers.
