New MLB Rumors Update Plans for Braves, White Sox Ahead of 2026 Trade Deadline

Atlanta Braves president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos is looking to add offensive help at the trade deadline after attempting to land a starting pitcher last offseason, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic.

"Atlanta Braves president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos was open about his desire last offseason to add a playoff-caliber starter, but still hasn't done it," Rosenthal reported Friday. "Anthopoulos, according to people briefed on his discussions, currently is more focused on his offense while weighing multiple internal options for his rotation."

The Chicago White Sox are also expected to be buyers ahead of the deadline and are "willing to be relatively aggressive" on players under club control, per Rosenthal. Chicago isn't inclined to "overpay for rentals," though.

Atlanta holds the top spot in the National League East standings at 55-40, but the team has lost 19 of its past 29 games.

The Braves have also struggled at the plate recently, with their .652 OPS as a team over the last 30 days representing the worst mark among all NL squads across that span. As Atlanta looks to get back on track, an addition to its lineup could be coming before the deadline.

Meanwhile, the White Sox hold a slim lead the No. 1 position in the American League Central with a 50-45 record.

It may be tempting for Chicago to explore several options on the trade market as it attempts to end a four-year postseason drought, but the team doesn't seem to be willing to target players that could potentially leave in free agency at the end of the year.

The 2026 MLB trade deadline is on Aug. 3.