The Atlanta Braves are once again proving to be one of MLB‘s top teams during the 2026 MLB season. Going into their Friday matchup against the Washington Nationals, they are 35-16 and have a 9.5-game lead in the National League East.

Their offense has been a key to their success. Through 51 games, the Braves rank first in batting average (.266), sixth in on-base percentage (.329) and first in slugging percentage (.445). Barring a collapse, Atlanta is expected to be a buyer at the Aug. 3 trade deadline.

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ESPN’s Buster Olney writes that Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton would be an ideal trade candidate for the Braves.

“Although Byron Buxton has a full no-trade clause, the Twins could always approach him, present a teardown reality to him, and give him the opportunity to go elsewhere and contend for a championship; he’d perfectly fit the needs of the Braves and other clubs,” Olney wrote.

Buxton has had just three 100-game seasons since making his MLB debut in 2015. While injuries have plagued his career, he’s off to a hot start this season. The two-time All-Star has appeared in 42 games this season.

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He has racked up 177 at-bats, 46 hits, 34 runs scored, 15 home runs, 23 RBIs, four stolen bases and a 146 OPS+. The one-time Silver Slugger is also slashing .260/.320/.576 with a .896 OPS.

While staying healthy has been Buxton’s main challenge during his 12-year career, he’s been a consistent contributor this season. However, he’d be a substantial financial obligation if the Braves wanted to bring the 32-year-old in.

Buxton is under contract through the 2028 season as part of a seven-year, $100 million contract with the Twins. It may be a worthy investment, though, for the Braves, who have the third-best odds (+850) to win the World Series, according to DraftKings.

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Related: Yankees Linked to Veteran Catcher as MLB Trade Deadline Candidate

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on May 22, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.