The story of the Braves' rebuild and
the events that sparked it. Previously
known for their big names, the Braves traded
almost all of them away for promising prospects.
Life was good in Atlanta during the 2013 MLB season. They finished tied for the second best record in the league. They captured their first division title in 8 years. It seemed as though nothing could bring them down. Until it did in 2014.
The Braves collapsed in 2014. They finished just 79-83. That finish just after their division lead prior to the all star break. All of this just one year after their dominating 2013 season. Atlanta’s high priced players were underperforming, like BJ Upton who hit 1.84. He still had 4 years left of a $75 million dollar contract. Dan Uggla, who was too given a 5 year deal, hit just 1.79. His contract was also overpriced for his play, worth 62 million. Contracts like that were ruining the Braves payroll, not to mention their performance. Something had to change.
The Braves wasted no time and began their rebuild in the 2014 offseason, They created a franchise built on young talent. They’re farm system now ranks in the top 10, just 5 years later.
The Braves kicked off their rebuild in November 2014, trading beloved right fielder Jason “J-Hey!” Heyward.
BJ Upton was the first Upton brother to go in the rebuild. The Braves traded him to San Diego for a young pitcher, as pitching was a main focus of the rebuild.
Evan Gattis, a fan favorite in Braves country, had a unique story. He was a janitor prior to playing in the MLB. The Braves traded him for a good pitcher and two other prospects.
Perhaps the most heartbreaking goodbye for Braves fans: Craig Kimbrel. Craig Kimbrel set an MLB record for saves by a rookie in 2011, with 46. He had at least 40 saves every season he played in Atlanta, which is incredible.
On November 12, 2015 the Braves traded young shortstop Andrelton “Simba“ Simmons for more young arms.
Acquisitions
Acquiring Max Fried in exchange for one of the Upton brothers is proving to be a steal for Atlanta. Max Fried has established a spot in the rotation, posting a 17-6 record in 2019.
Mike Foltynewicz, just 28, brings vetran presence to the Braves young rotation. He has been an ace for them since arriving in 2015.
Austin Riley is working to become Chipper Jones‘ successor. He cracked the major leagues in 2019, and hit 18 home runs in just 80 games.
Dansby Swanson gets swarmed by teammates after a walk-off single against the Marlins. In his young career with the Braves, Swanson has come through with countless clutch hits.
Ender Inciarte poses with Manager Brian Snitker, holding one of his 3 consecutive gold gloves. Those awards alone prove that Inciarte was an elite acquisition.
The Braves were arguably the biggest surprise of 2018. They became contenders again, ahead of schedule. They won the NL East with a fantastic 90 win season, thanks to their depth of young stars.
The Braves captured the NL East once again in 2019. An underdog to some, they overcame the Nationals, the hottest team in baseball during the second half of the season.