The 2025 season has been a major disappointment for the Atlanta Braves, who find themselves far out of the playoff race as the All-Star break nears. After starting the year with an 0-7 record, things have only gone downhill, and their situation has worsened ahead of Thursday’s game against the Athletics.
Given the team’s struggles, speculation is growing that the Braves could become sellers at the MLB trade deadline rather than buyers. Even star outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. has been mentioned in trade rumors.
One notable report suggests that if the Cincinnati Reds are unable to land Steven Kwan from the Guardians, they might turn their attention to Braves slugger Marcell Ozuna.
“If acquiring Kwan proves too costly, there are other solid alternatives, particularly Marcell Ozuna,” ESPN’s Jeff Passan noted. “Ozuna’s power would be a perfect fit at Great American Ball Park. With a strong starting rotation featuring All-Star Andrew Abbott, Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, and Chase Burns, the Reds would be a formidable playoff team. Adding another bat like Ozuna could help turn that potential into their first playoff series win in 30 years.”
It’s unclear what the Reds might offer in return, but considering how the season has unfolded, Atlanta is likely open to exploring all trade possibilities.
The Braves entered 2025 as legitimate World Series contenders, but widespread underperformance across the roster—and a sharp decline in pitching—has caused the team to spiral, leaving their title hopes in ruins.
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