Earlier this week, I proposed a hypothetical trade that would send Cincinnati Reds pitcher Nick Martinez to the Atlanta Braves in exchange for a package of prospects. The Braves are in need of a reliable starting pitcher, and Martinez could be a strong fit. Here’s a breakdown of the trade:
Braves receive: RHP Nick Martinez
Reds receive: INF Nacho Alvarez Jr., RHP JR Ritchie
Surprisingly, the Reds now have more starting pitching depth than they can manage—despite last year’s struggles with injuries. Their current rotation features Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, and Brady Singer at the top, followed by Andrew Abbott and Martinez. On top of that, top prospect Rhett Lowder is recovering from injury, and arms like Chase Petty and Chase Burns may be ready for the majors this season.
If the Reds were to move a starter, Martinez makes the most sense given his expiring contract. For the Braves, he would provide much-needed consistency in a rotation that has lacked it so far this season. Even with Spencer Strider nearing a return, Atlanta can’t afford to rely on Grant Holmes and Bryce Elder if they want to stay competitive.
In return, Cincinnati would get promising infielder Nacho Alvarez Jr., a potential future third baseman, and JR Ritchie, a young pitcher with an advanced pitch mix. Though giving up these prospects wouldn’t be easy, the Braves may have to pull the trigger if they want to stabilize their rotation.
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