Braves Propose Blockbuster Trade for $6.2 Million All-Star Ace Joe Ryan

The deal would create a powerful 1-2 punch with Chris Sale in Atlanta's rotation.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Atlanta Braves are reportedly proposing a blockbuster trade with the Minnesota Twins that would send their top prospects to acquire All-Star starting pitcher Joe Ryan. The deal would give the Braves a formidable 1-2 punch in their rotation alongside veteran Chris Sale, as they look to contend for a playoff spot.

Why it matters

The Braves' starting rotation has been hit hard by injuries, leaving them thin on viable options behind Sale. Acquiring the 26-year-old Ryan, who is coming off an All-Star season, would give them a much-needed boost as they aim to return to the postseason.

The details

The proposed trade would send the Braves' No. 68 overall prospect LHP Cam Caminiti, No. 90 overall prospect RHP JR Ritchie, and their No. 5 overall prospect SS Alex Lodise to the Twins in exchange for Ryan. Despite Ryan's recent back inflammation issues, he posted a 13-10 record with a 3.42 ERA and 194 strikeouts over 171 innings last season, making him an attractive target for the Braves.

  • The 2026 MLB season is set to begin in April.

The players

Joe Ryan

A 26-year-old right-handed starting pitcher for the Minnesota Twins, who made the 2022 All-Star team.

Chris Sale

A veteran left-handed starting pitcher and ace of the Atlanta Braves' rotation.

Spencer Strider

A young right-handed starting pitcher for the Atlanta Braves whose performance has declined recently.

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What they’re saying

“The Braves are already down two starters because of injuries. Meanwhile, Chris Sale is in his late 30s, and Spencer Strider is only throwing 93.1 mph. This rotation is crying out for a savior, and Ryan is the best one Atlanta can reasonably hope for.”

— Zachary D. Rymer, Bleacher Report Writer (Bleacher Report)

What’s next

The Braves and Twins would need to finalize the details of the proposed trade and receive approval from both teams' front offices before it could be completed.

The takeaway

This potential trade highlights the Braves' urgency to bolster their starting rotation as they aim to contend for a playoff spot, even if it means parting with some of their top prospects. Acquiring an All-Star caliber pitcher like Joe Ryan would give them a formidable 1-2 punch at the top of their rotation alongside Chris Sale.