Could Atlanta Braves find pitching help by trading within NL East?

As the Atlanta Braves look for pitching help, they may find their best solutions within the NL East.

It’s rare that teams in the same division hook up on a blockbuster deal, but the Atlanta Braves have the prospects to get any player they want.

The big ‘if’ there is whether or not the Atlanta Braves front office is willing to give up some of those top prospects, and if they think this team has a real shot at winning the World Series this year.

At this point, any trade that the Braves make has to be something that will help them contend against the Dodgers.

And as I wrote recently, the Braves and Dodgers are very comparable in every way except for starting pitching.

There aren’t many pitchers out there available through trade at the moment that would significantly bolster the Atlanta Braves starting rotation.

That is unless a division rival was to bow out of the race and start to sell off some of their pitching.

Of course, I’m referring to the New York Mets.

There was a brief moment when it looked like the Washington Nationals could be sellers, but a recent hot streak has them back in the playoff race.

The Braves and Nationals play seven times before the trade deadline. That’s exactly how many games back the Nationals are of the Braves right now.

Needless to say, the Nationals are here to stay. And the Philadelphia Phillies have spent too much money to give up on the season. Plus, outside of Aaron Nola, I’m not sure there is anyone on their pitching staff I would really want.

Caleb Smith could be an interesting name from the Miami Marlins, but I’m not sure he’s the upgrade the Atlanta Braves need in the starting rotation.

Let’s take a look at what the Mets could offer, and how likely it is for the Braves to make a deal within the division.