With Chipper Jones ailing and the depth of the Atlanta Braves roster looking a bit thin for the 2012 season, the Braves management made a move to help manager Fredi Gonzalez out a bit. The Braves have made a trade with the Cincinnati Reds for third baseman Juan Francisco. In return, the Braves will send back right-hander J.J. Hoover. This report coming from a Braves press release this weekend.
Francisco, 24, has been a power hitting prospect within the Reds organization for quite some time. However, his inability to secede Scott Rolen for the starting spot in Cincinnati has made him expendable. Given the Braves need for depth in both the infield and outfield, Francisco could provide some relief for Jones.
Given this move, this should also settle Martin Prado to start the season in the outfield instead of third base.
Hoover, 24, will report to the Reds' Triple-A affiliate in Louisville.
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