Atlanta Braves Facing Trade Competition From Dodgers, Yankees for 2-Time All-Star

The Atlanta Braves are in the market for a starting pitcher. Ranking 22nd in MLB with a 4.36 team ERA last season, Atlanta struggled to keep opponents off the board. This was the catalyst behind a disappointing 76-86 record, as the Braves' offense ranked in the top half of the league in almost all major categories.

As they look to reenter the postseason picture in 2026, the Braves need pitching help. One of the top available candidates on the trade market is two-time All-Star Freddy Peralta of the Milwaukee Brewers. 

Entering the final year of his contract that will pay him just $8 million in 2026, Peralta is set to become a lot more expensive if he continues producing. This is largely why Milwaukee is open to dealing him.

Peralta had a career year in 2025, leading the league with 17 wins while posting a 2.70 ERA in 176.2 innings pitched. He struck out more than 200 batters for the third straight season, earning a fifth-place finish in National League Cy Young voting. Needless to say, he's popular on the trade market.

It was reported on Saturday by Jon Heyman of the New York Post that the Braves are among the teams interested in Peralta, but they face competition from teams such as the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees and New York Mets.

"Brewers continue to field offers on ace pitcher Freddy Peralta, a free agent after 2026," Heyman reported. "Yankees, Mets, Dodgers, Giants and Braves among many, many interested teams. Peralta $8M salary means anyone can afford, including Brewers, but extension tougher for small markets."

Even in the final year of his contract, Peralta should net a large return for Milwaukee if dealt. Still just 29 years old, the right-hander seems to be getting better entering his ninth MLB season. If they cannot land a top arm in free agency, which seems increasingly likely as Framber Valdez is the lone remaining top-end starter, Atlanta may be forced to bolster its staff via trade.

What makes Atlanta's pursuit of Peralta especially challenging is the willingness a team like Los Angeles would have in extending him longterm. Not only could the Dodgers put together a strong trade package, but they could also afford Peralta in free agency. In theory, this could make LA much less hesitant to trade for his expiring contract — and subsequently more willing to beat any offer Atlanta may have on the table.

The 2026 MLB season is fast approaching, but a lot remains unsettled both in free agency and the trade market. Peralta could be one of the biggest swing factors.