The Braves are reportedly unlikely to trade for CJ Abrams.
The Atlanta Braves have been linked to a number of players in both trade and free agency rumors. Washington Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams has been mentioned as a potential trade candidate for Atlanta given shortstop Ha-Seong Kim's injury. MLB insider Jon Heyman recently revealed the reality of the situation, claiming that he does not envision an Abrams-led Braves-Nationals trade coming to fruition, via B/R Walk-Off.
Heyman said he does not believe Atlanta will be willing to surrender enough prospect capital for the Nationals infielder. Additionally, Kim is expected to return from injury in May, so the Braves don't necessarily have to bring in a new player at the position.
Abrams, 25, is under team control through 2028. Trading him now would allow Washington to maximize his value.
CJ Abrams Likely Won't End Up With Braves
In 2025, the 25-year-old hit .257 to go along with a .748 OPS, 19 home runs, 35 doubles and 31 stolen bases. Abrams plays a premier position and offers a quality combination of both power and speed. He was an All-Star in 2024 as well, something that will only boost his trade value.
One has to imagine the Braves would not mind the idea of adding a player such as Abrams to their infield. The problem is the trade return a deal would likely require. Washington is open to moving its stars -- MacKenzie Gore was already traded to the Texas Rangers -- but the cost is not cheap. For example, Gore was traded for five prospects.
The Braves are reportedly hesitant to give up too many impactful prospects. As a result, the Nationals may need to look elsewhere if they want to move on from Abrams before the 2026 campaign.
As mentioned, he still has a few years of team control remaining on his current contract. The Nationals do not have to force a trade this offseason. They could wait until the trade deadline or even next offseason to make a deal happen.
Nevertheless, a trade remains a legitimate possibility this offseason. Unless something changes, though, it appears that the Braves will not be pursuing a deal.
Braves' Current Shortstop Outlook
Mauricio Dubon may be Atlanta's starting shortstop on Opening Day in 2026 if the team does not bring anyone else in. Dubon would handle duties at the position until May. Assuming no setbacks occur, Kim could then take over shortstop.
The Braves may still entertain the idea of bringing in another player to help out at shortstop, it just likely won't be Abrams given the expected trade value.