ATLANTA — The Braves acquired All-Star center fielder Nate McLouth from the Pittsburgh Pirates for three minor leaguers on Wednesday. This should help an anemic offense that ranks at the bottom in most offensive categories.
Atlanta gave up outfielder Gorkys Hernandez, one of their top prospects, along with pitchers Charlie Morton and Jeff Locke.
McLouth, who isn’t that well known because of playing in Pittsburgh is really a five-tool player. Last year he hit .276, had 26 homers and 94 RBIs. He also added a Gold Glove to the resume in 2008 and has one of the best teal percentages in the Majors. Since the start of the ’05 season, he has the best stolen base percentage (64 of 69) among all major leaguers.
Most people in tune with Major League Baseball feel the Braves practically stole McLouth here. Not only his production on the field but another great thing about this trade is Nate’s under contract through at least 2011, having signed a three-year, $15.75 contract in spring training. The deal includes a team option for a fourth year at $10.65 million, with a $1.25 million buyout.
Along with the signing of McLouth the Braves were busy making moves on Wednesday releasing former Cy Young Tom Glavine, and calling up the best pitching prospect in the organization in Tommy Hanson.
This should give the ball club a huge lift, but to think this will make them contenders in the NL East with the Phillies and Mets is a long shot.
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