Braves just gave Reds a budget boost to chase their next roster piece

The Cincinnati Reds waved goodbye to Jake Fraley this past week. After it became apparent that Fraley's role had become severely diminished, the Reds designated him for assignment in order to let the outfielder pursue opportunities with another team.

The Atlanta Braves stepped up and claimed Fraley off waivers earlier this week. Though Atlanta had been hit hard by injuries this season, it was a bit of surprise given that the Braves have Michael Harris Jr., Jurickson Profar, and Ronald Acuña Jr. roaming the outfield on a nightly basis.

The one this move did, however, was provide the Reds with a little extra spending money. By submitting a claim, Atlanta is now on the hook for the remainder of Fraley's salary. He signed a one-year, $3.125 million contract to avoid arbitration this past offseason, and the Braves will pick up the remaining $672,000.

Braves just gave Reds a budget boost to chase their next roster piece

Though the MLB trade deadline has passed, another important date is quickly approaching. While there's not an official "wavier deadline", if a claiming team wants the player they acquire to eligible for the postseason, the claim must be submitted by August 31.

Just like the Braves took on Fraley's salary, the Reds would responsible for whatever amount of money is still owed if they decide to submit a claim. Reds fans saw the Reds do this back in 2023 when they acquired Harrison Bader and Hunter Renfroe. Cincinnati was said to be targeting Lucas Giolito that summer as well, but the Cleveland Guardians beat them to the punch.

A number of talented players could be on the move before August 31, and with the savings from Fraley's contract, perhaps the Reds could make a meaningful addition for the postseason push. A handful of players from the Los Angeles Angels, Colorado Rockies, Washington Nationals, and Pittsburgh Pirates could be available.

With Tyler Stephenson on the mend, it's possible that finding a backup catcher could be on the team's wishlist. Relievers are always popular as well, and perhaps even an extra starter.

Given Fraley's relatively high price tag in light of his production, it was mildly surprising to see a team like the Braves claim him off waivers. Maybe the Braves were just hoping to stick it to the NL East rivals, the New York Mets, and gave Cincinnati a little extra boost heading into the waiver deadline. The Reds trail the Mets by just a ½ game in the NL Wild Card standings heading into play on Friday night.

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