The Atlanta Braves are already in discussions about potential trades ahead of the Winter Meetings, with top prospect Hurston Waldrep highlighted as a candidate for a move. As the Braves have shown a willingness to trade young pitching, Waldrep's position may be precarious, especially with emerging talents like Spencer Schwellenbach and recent draft pick Cam Caminiti.

Waldrep's Major League debut in 2024 was challenging, but his Triple-A performance indicates promise. Scouts praise his fastball and splitter, suggesting he could develop into a solid starter if he improves his command. The Braves may need to make strategic trades to manage their crowded pitching pipeline.

The 2024 MLB winter meetings are set to be bustling, with several prominent players like Nolan Arenado and Devin Williams likely on the trading block. The focus will also be on prospects who could be pivotal in trades, especially those blocked from major league opportunities.

Among the top prospects mentioned are Franklin Arias of the Boston Red Sox and Roderick Arias from the New York Yankees, both of whom could be key trade pieces. Tyler Black from the Milwaukee Brewers and Owen Caissie of the Chicago Cubs are also highlighted as potential trade candidates due to their current team situations.

Other notable prospects include Justin Crawford of the Philadelphia Phillies, who may be moved for a big-league player, and Jaden Hamm from the Detroit Tigers, who has emerged as a top pitching prospect. The Baltimore Orioles' Coby Mayo and Dalton Rushing from the Los Angeles Dodgers are also in the mix, as teams look to bolster their rosters for the upcoming season.

The Atlanta Braves have a core of players aged over 25, making the selection of the best player under 25 a challenge. However, Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter has identified starting pitcher Spencer Schwellenbach as the top choice for 2024, following his impressive performance after debuting on May 29.

Schwellenbach recorded a 2.54 ERA and 95 strikeouts over his last 15 starts, showcasing his potential as a key player for the Braves. Meanwhile, center fielder Michael Harris II, despite an injury-plagued season, is also a strong contender for the title.

As Schwellenbach will turn 25 next May, the Braves may see new emerging talents like AJ Smith-Shawver, Hurston Waldrep, and infielder Nacho Alvarez Jr. competing for the best under 25 title in the coming seasons.