The Atlanta Braves achieved what looks to be a masterpiece of a trade on the day of the MLB trade deadline, acquiring top-notch leadoff man and CF Michael Bourn from the Houston Astros for CF Jordan Schafer and an assortment of prospects, none of which was among the Atlanta system's most majors-ready players.
David O'Brien takes the temperature of the Braves clubhouse, finding players are happy to be acquiring a true leadoff man, but sad to see Schafer go. Jeff Schultz had a word with Schafer, who said he wasn't surprised about the news and was expecting to go to Houston.
Considering Bourn is under contract for 2012, giving the Braves plenty of time to negotiate an extension if they so desire, this move looks even better. This isn't just another Mark Teixeira. Get used to seeing a base-churning player with speed at the top of Atlanta's lineup for the first time since ... since whenever, because he's going to be around for a little while.
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