The Atlanta Braves remain in the market for another starting pitcher as they prepare for the upcoming MLB season. While the free agent pool offers options such as Chris Bassitt, Nick Martinez, and Zack Littell, the Braves appear inclined to pursue a more reliable starter through a significant trade deal. One possible target is Luis Severino of the Athletics, with spring training under ten days away, leaving time for transactions before the season begins.
Evaluating Luis Severino’s Trade Potential
According to Spotrac.com, Luis Severino ranks third among MLB trade candidates. Currently in the second year of a $45 million contract, Severino has a player option for 2027, which he is likely to exercise unless he excels in 2026. A proposed trade would see the Braves sending starter Grant Holmes and prospect Garrett Baumann to Oakland in exchange for Severino.
The Athletics are looking to improve their pitching staff, and Severino has reportedly grown frustrated pitching at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, where the Athletics will remain for two more seasons. Holmes, who posted a 3.99 earned run average (ERA) over 115 innings and 21 starts in 2025, offers several years of team control, making him a valuable asset for a Braves squad targeting immediate success.
Severino’s performance differs markedly between home and road games. On the road, he posted a 3.02 ERA in 80.2 innings, while his home ERA was significantly higher at 6.02 over 82.1 innings. This disparity highlights concerns over his effectiveness in Sacramento but underscores his value in other environments.
Trade Feasibility and Strategic Implications
The Athletics might find this trade appealing if the Braves absorb a large portion of Severino’s contract. They would acquire a promising young starter in Holmes and the Braves’ sixth-ranked prospect, Baumann, both of whom could contribute to Oakland’s rebuilding efforts. Severino would not be expected to lead the Braves’ rotation, with frontline starters Chris Sale and Spencer Schwellenbach already filling that role.
Atlanta could also explore moving other controllable pitchers like AJ Smith-Shawver or Joey Wentz to facilitate the deal if needed. The Athletics have been active in reshaping their roster this offseason, trading for Jeff McNeil and extending shortstop Jacob Wilson, which reflects their ongoing efforts to balance immediate competitiveness with future development.
While it may seem likely that the Braves would reject such a trade, Severino’s strong road performance over the last two seasons suggests he remains a formidable starting pitcher capable of bolstering Atlanta’s rotation.
Potential Impact on Braves and Athletics Moving Forward
Acquiring Severino could provide the Braves with a dependable starting option who complements their existing ace pitchers, reinforcing their competitive position in the coming season. For the Athletics, receiving young talent and prospects aligns with their longer-term rebuilding strategy, especially given their challenging home pitching environment.
This proposed trade illustrates how both teams seek to address their current needs amid the remaining preseason period, with decisions expected soon as spring training approaches. Observers will watch closely whether the Braves finalize this bold move to acquire Severino and how it influences their roster composition heading into the new campaign.
