Braves Trade News: Rays starting pitcher Zach Eflin reportedly being targeted by Atlanta

The MLB trade deadline of July 31st is approaching and the teams are looking for potential good players. According to baseball insider Bob Nightengale, the Atlanta Braves also have a player in mind.

"Atlanta is keeping a close eye on Tampa Bay Rays veteran starter Zach Eflin if they decide they need another starter at the trade deadline," wrote Bob Nightengale, as per USA Today.

Eflin has performed well so far. He boasts an ERA of 4.12 and a WHIP of 1.17, having struck out 44 times so far this season. The Braves are in a strong position in the National League East but having a reliable pitcher like Eflin would boost their chances of playing in the playoffs.

Eflin was signed by the Rays in a three-year, $40-million deal. He is currently in the second year of his contract. Trading him would help clear payroll for the team and bring on board new players who would have a positive impact on the Rays’ long-term plan.

If the Braves acquire Eflin, he will be subject to half of the salary of 2024, which is $5.5 million, and he will also get a trade assignment bonus of $1 million. This will be quite an affordable trade for the Braves. Only time will tell if they can strike a deal for Eflin with the Rays.

Despite Braves interest, Zach Eflin struggled against the Blue Jays

Zach Eflin struggled in Saturday’s outing against the Toronto Blue Jays. He surrendered four runs on nine hits over six innings. However, Jonny Deluca clutched at the end.

“I was thinking about doing it myself and then I was like, ‘First pitch, I’m going to sit heater.’ I ended up getting it and putting a good swing on it,” said Deluca in a post-match interview.

He hit a home run in the eighth inning that helped the Tampa Bay Rays defeat the Blue Jays 5-4 even after having a four-run deficit. This was their fourth straight win.