A BP arm that can get LHed hitters out is definitely an area of need for the Braves, and it should be possible to fill that need relatively cheaply.
Here is a list of the 47 pitchers who have pitched 25+ innings since the start of 2017 with an FIP and xFIP of 3.5 or less in the 6th-9th innings vs LHed hitters:
https://www.fangraphs.com/leadersspl...=30&sort=17,-1
Potential targets are only going to be on non-contenders, and they include:
Tony Watson (Giants)
Brad Hand (Padres)
Roberto Osuna (Jays)
Luis Avilan (White Sox)
Alex Claudio (Rangers)
Bryan Shaw (Rockies)
Jerry Blevins (Mets)
Aaron Loup (Jays)
- It's safe to assume Hand isn't going to happen.
- The Giants may or may not sell, but Watson will only be owed about $1M for RoS 2018, $3.5M in 2019, and a $2.5M option in 2020.
- Osuna is a stud still in arbitration and getting expensive due to racking up saves. He is unlikely to be the target.
- Avilan is the poster child for LHed set up rental arm. He would fit nicely.
- Claudio is a prototypical LHed setup guy under arb control for 3 more years. If used properly he might be an ideal target.
- Shaw just got big money from the Rockies and isn't a likely target for the Braves.
- Blevins is another prototypical set up LHer. He will be making less than $2M RoS in 2018 with a $7M option in 2018. He is another solid target.
- Loup is another prototypical set up LHer. He's a rental making almost nothing RoS in 2018. Solid target.
Based on this list, the best options are Avilan, Claudio, Blevins and Loup. A combo deal with the Mets for Asdrubel and Blevins could represent a one-stop-shop for the Braves...as would Solarte and Loup from the Jays.