LA Angels Trade Block: Finding Aces in the NL East

Atlanta Braves

I hate to include Tommy La Stella twice in a trade as I try to keep these from repeating themselves, but this is another move that makes a lot of sense for the Braves and Angels. The Braves would be hesitant to part with any starting pitching, but giving them a prospect they once had might push them to make the deal.

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Last season, Mike Foltynewicz posted a 4.54 ERA on the season, failing to build on what was a breakout 2018 season. He was hampered by injuries for part of the year, and could be destined to find a happy medium between his 2018 and 2019 stat line.

And as we’ve gone over multiple times, the Angels need as much starting pitching help as they can.

Similar to the Phillies deal, La Stella would give the Braves an everyday infielder with plenty of pop and a solid glove.

The interesting part of this trade is returning Kevin Maitan to the Braves, who had him committed to sign with the team until they were caught in an international signing scandal. The Angels swooped in and signed Maitan. However, he has not been able to develop in their system. A return to Atlanta’s system may be exactly what the prospect needs, and maybe the Braves could be tempted with a young player they were so intrigued by just a few years ago.