MLB Trade Rumors: Braves to Target Rays' Zach Eflin If SP Is Needed Ahead of Deadline

The Atlanta Braves are "keeping a close eye" on Tampa Bay Rays starting righthander Zach Eflin, USA Today's Bob Nightengale reported.

The Braves could consider making a move for Eflin "if they decide they need another starter at the trade deadline," according to Nightengale.

Eflin, who stepped up to lead the Rays rotation amid a flurry of injuries last season, earned the first Opening Day start of his career to begin 2024.

So far Eflin has recorded a 4.12 ERA and 1.169 WHIP through 10 starts and 59.0 innings pitched for the Rays.

The Braves head into Sunday with a 26-15 record, good for third in the NL, and will be looking to make a push to the playoffs in the latter half of the season.

The loss of 2023 league strikeout leader Spencer Strider, who underwent season-ending elbow surgery in April, means that the Braves could plan top pad out their rotation depth in order to make that push.

Atlanta's rotation is currently comprised of Max Fried, Chris Sale, Charlie Morton, Reynaldo Lopez and Bryce Elder.

Both Lopez and Elder were fringe rotation options heading into the season, and any further injuries would present a serious test for this rotation depth.

The addition of a veteran starter as a replacement for Strider could solidify the Braves' position as a postseason contender.

The Rays, a 25-22 team heading into Sunday seven games back of the AL East lead, could potentially decide to continue the selling that sent star pitcher Tyler Glasnow to the Los Angeles Dodgers this offseason by considering a deal at the July 30 deadline.