Now, it would be potentially an expensive acquisition, but it could be worth it depending on the trade. Bellinger willIf the Braves get the version of Bellinger from 2023, then taking on the entire salary would be worth it. That season, the 2019 NL MVPwith 26 home runs and 97 RBIs. However, the Bellinger we saw in 2024, while still a valuable bat, might be as worth the price. He slashed .266/.325/.426 with 18 home runs and 78 RBIs.
Top-30 prospects would be given up in any trade, regardless of how much salary is moved around. However, the amount of salary moved with scale the number of top prospects in exchange - though, realistically, the difference it likely comes down to is one prospect being moved or two. How highly ranked the prospects are could also be a factor.
For the long term, the Braves don’t really have the best options in left field. Bellinger hasn't played a lot of games in left field, just 41 in his career.- will perform as well as he did with the Braves in 2024. Even though he struggled at the plate for a few seasons, Bellinger still has a much stronger track record as of late. If they do choose to not tender Laureano, that would open up further salary to take on Bellinger.