In a devastating blow for the Atlanta Braves, an MRI has revealed that reigning NL MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. has torn the ACL in his left knee and will be out for the remainder of the 2024 season. Acuña Jr. left today’s game early after suffering a non-contact injury running the bases, and now the worst fear for Braves fans has been confirmed. Losing Acuña Jr. for the season is a devastating blow, and Atlanta will need to add reinforcements to their outfield as soon as possible to mitigate the loss. Enter Tommy Pham.
Pham signed with the White Sox in mid-April, and the rest is history. He has been the best position player on the White Sox roster since his arrival, as he has slashed .315/.361/.459 in 28 games with Chicago. Pham ranks favorably from a metrics standpoint nearly across the board and is in the midst of one of the best seasons of his career despite being 36 years old. He has career highs in launch angle, sweet spot%, and flyball% while having a career low in groundball%. Those stats have undoubtedly contributed to his success this season.
Pham’s contract is also why he is an appealing trade candidate. He signed a minor league deal with the White Sox for $3.5 million with an additional $1.5 million in incentives. A contract of that structure and dollar amount is hardly anything in the context of an MLB team, and the Braves should be able to add his contract to their books without issues. Atlanta currently has Jarred Kelenic, Michael Harris II, and Adam Duvall on their roster, which could form a formidable starting outfield even if they do not acquire another outfielder from the outside. However, Pham can slide seamlessly into Acuña’s spot in right field and play center field if needed. He would fit in nicely with Atlanta’s current outfield mix.
From the White Sox perspective, they will likely not get a massive return for Pham when they trade him despite his strong season and affordable contract. After all, he is a 36-year-old rental. However, injuries can change the thought process significantly. Look no further than the Rangers trading for Robbie Grossman after Wyatt Langford got hurt. The White Sox could capitalize on a similar opportunity with Pham. He is realistically one of the best outfield options available on the trade market, so the White Sox should be able to get something interesting for him.
The Braves are contending this season, and Pham can replace at least a portion of Acuña Jr.’s production at a minimal prospect cost for the Braves. He also has a history of being a good teammate and postseason performer. On the other hand, the White Sox must continue accumulating young talent and Pham can help continue that process. A 15-39 team does not need a 36-year-old outfielder and should look to recoup value for a player of that nature if possible. Pham being a fit for the Braves is purely speculation, but it makes sense on paper.
