Insider States: Braves have long wanted to trade for speedy outfielder, division rival

The Atlanta Braves need to improve their outfield if they want to be a title contender this season. With Michael Harris II not in sight and Jarred Kelenic stagnating after a strong start, Atlanta’s outfield has seen better days.

More recently, veterans Adam Duvall and Ramón Laureano have had a nice showing in right field. That said, ESPN insider Jeff Passan said the Braves have been keeping tabs on Washington Nationals outfielder Lane Thomas for some time.

“The Braves are atop the National League wild-card standings, and they still have the kind of pitching and roster depth to scare even Philadelphia (which has eliminated favored Atlanta from two straight playoff series). So yes, even if president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos is aiming more for singles and doubles than home runs, the Braves are willing to add an outfield hitter — they’ve long liked Washington’s Lane Thomas — and hope a repeat of their injury-plagued 2021 championship is in the cards,” Passan wrote.

The 28-year-old outfielder could be a low-cost or good value acquisition for the Braves that would prove profitable for the remainder of this season and beyond.

At 6-foot-4 and 190 pounds, Thomas has solid contact and good speed. He’s third in the National League with 26 stolen bases. Plus, his glove makes him an asset in right field compared to what manager Brian Snitker is currently working with.

Additionally, he brings a consistent hitting to the lineup, with a .247/.320/.396 line, including 23 hits in the last 30 days alone.

While eight home runs this season may not be spectacular, they would still be a welcome addition to an Atlanta roster that has struggled to find an identity. Plus, he’s a special player against left-handed pitchers, as he was one of the best hitters in 2024 against lefties.

A trade within an internal division would be beneficial for the Braves, especially since some big fish are either out of their reach or already off the market.