The Atlanta Braves made one substantial trade on Monday night, acquiring outfielder Reed Johnson and left-handed pitcher Paul Maholm in exchange for Arodys Vizcaino and Jaye Chapman. The deal was a very good one for the Braves, especially when you consider it filled their biggest need off the bench and added a capable back-end starter.
Atlanta is happy with their move, but that does not mean they will sit back on Tuesday as the trade deadline nears. With all non-waiver trades required to go through by 4 p.m. EST, expect general manager Frank Wren to keep making phone calls throughout the afternoon.
The Braves could benefit by adding a quality right-handed reliever to the back their bullpen. Craig Kimbrel has been phenomenal this season, but getting the ball to him in the 9th inning hasn't always been easy.
Jonny Venters has been inconsistent all year. Chad Durbin seems to be all-or-nothing every time he takes the mound. Luis Avilan isn't a bad pitcher, but he really should only be pitching against left-handed batters due to his splits. The same goes for current Triple-A pitcher Cory Gearrin against righties. Jair Jurrjens isn't a viable option except in mop-up duties.
There are always relievers on the trade market this time of year. The Braves will not overpay for one, but just because they made one deal last night doesn't mean they are necessarily done for good.
Atlanta could also look to acquire a left-handed pinch-hitter for the bench given Eric Hinske's struggles this season.
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