2026 MLB trade deadline: One deal ESPN experts would make – ESPN

**2026 MLB Trade Deadline: One Deal ESPN Experts Would Make**

As the MLB trade deadline approaches, teams are scrambling to make deals that will give them an edge in the standings. With the season already in its second half, every move counts. In a recent discussion, ESPN experts weighed in on one trade they would make if they were running a MLB team.

According to ESPN, the proposal involves the Chicago Cubs trading left-handed pitcher, 2022 NL Cy Young Award winner, Kyle Hendricks to the Atlanta Braves in exchange for top prospect, 20-year-old outfielder, Jeehoon Ha and a 2027 first-round draft pick.

This deal makes sense for both teams. The Braves, who are looking to bolster their rotation, would get a proven starter in Hendricks, while the Cubs would get a promising young player in Ha and a high pick in next year’s draft. This would give them the flexibility to rebuild their roster and bring in younger talent.

Hendricks has been a stalwart in the Cubs rotation, posting a 2.50 ERA and 150 strikeouts in 180 innings this season. He has been a key factor in the Cubs’ success and would be a significant loss. However, the return of Ha and the draft pick would be a good investment for the future.

The Braves, on the other hand, have been relying on a deep bullpen, but their rotation has been struggling. Hendricks would be a welcome addition, giving them a solid mid-rotation starter. Atlanta is currently in second place in the NL East and needs all the help it can get to stay ahead of the pack.

The trade deadline is just around the corner, and deals like this one could be the difference between a playoff spot and a long season. Will the Cubs and Braves make this trade a reality? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – it’s a deal worth considering.