Speculation continues to grow linking the Atlanta Braves to a potential trade for Milwaukee Brewers right-hander Freddy Peralta, with several other MLB teams also reportedly showing interest. From Atlanta’s perspective, the interest is understandable, as Peralta would immediately strengthen the rotation and could allow the Braves to shift one of their borderline starters into a bullpen role. Still, there are multiple factors the organization must weigh before deciding whether a deal is worthwhile.
Competition for Peralta’s services is expected to be fierce, with teams such as the Yankees, Mets, Dodgers, and Red Sox all rumored to be in the mix. That level of interest gives Milwaukee significant leverage, meaning the Brewers can afford to be selective. For Atlanta, that likely translates to surrendering high-end prospects to outbid rival suitors.
While the Braves do possess the necessary assets to construct a legitimate offer, negotiations could become complicated if the Brewers take a firm stance. Peralta is scheduled to earn a team-friendly $8 million next season and will remain under contract through 2026 before reaching free agency. That affordability, combined with his production—posting a 2.70 ERA across 176.2 innings with 204 strikeouts—makes him a highly attractive trade target.
Any serious trade proposal would almost certainly need to be headlined by Atlanta’s top prospect, left-hander Cam Caminiti. However, Caminiti alone would not be enough to finalize a deal. Additional prospects would need to be included, potentially Atlanta’s No. 9 and No. 10 prospects, outfielder Conor Essenburg and right-hander Drue Hackenberg.
Essenburg was selected in the fifth round of the 2025 MLB Draft, while Hackenberg, a pitcher nearing the major leagues, was a second-round pick in 2023. In theory, that package could satisfy Milwaukee’s demands, but it would represent a significant price for what is essentially one guaranteed season of Peralta.
For such a move to make sense, the Braves would likely need to replicate a scenario similar to their extensions with Sean Murphy or Matt Olson. Securing a contract extension from Peralta shortly after a trade would make the sacrifice of three premium prospects far easier to justify.
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