Morning Chop: Braves 6/25
By Jeff Schafer
Atlanta Braves Trade Rumors: Interest in James Russell of Cubs Would Make Sense
"The Atlanta Braves’ starting rotation looks healthy, durable and effective in 2013. However, their setup roles out of the bullpen took a huge hit, forcing the Braves to look for talent on the market to add depth to their bullpen. Ultimately, their goal is to continue getting Craig Kimbrel the ball with a lead. Here’s why the Braves should look into acquiring James Russell of the Chicago Cubs.As the deadline is approaching, the Cubs are placing a lot of their guys on the trade market. Alfonso Soriano always seems to surface in trade talks, but the Braves don’t need an outfielder. Russell was listed as a moving part in the Cubs’ organization. He’s put up decent numbers in his four-year career, but so far in 2013, Russell has been extremely effective.For those who are not familiar with Russell, he is a left-handed pitcher who tops out in the late 80’s with his fastball. Russell might not have the strongest arm, but he is truly effective. Don’t be fooled by his velocity, in 28.1 innings pitched, Russell has 26 strikeouts. So far this season, he’s 1-1 with a 2.22 ERA. Russell is 27 years old and is currently under team control, becoming a free agent in 2016."
Atlanta Braves announce “Home Run Readers” summer reading program
"This summer, the Atlanta Braves and the National Education Association’s (NEA) “Read Across America” and the Georgia Association of Educators are partnering with Georgia Public Library Service (GPLS) for the 2013 Atlanta Braves Summer Reading Program, “Home Run Readers.”This new educational outreach program encourages students to build a love for reading, as well as advance their reading skills during the summer months. Home Run Readers rewards students in grades K-12 throughout Georgia by providing one free Braves ticket for each participant who reads at least one book about sports or good sportsmanship. Discounted tickets for accompanying family members and friends will be available for $7 each.Reward tickets can be redeemed for any of the five following games:Sunday, June 30, vs. Arizona DiamondbacksTuesday, July 2, vs. Miami MarlinsMonday, July 29, vs. Colorado RockiesThursday, August 1, vs. Colorado RockiesSunday, August 11, vs. Miami Marlins"
Atlanta Braves Have Gotten Better End of Jordan Walden, Tommy Hanson Trade
March 26, 2013; Lakeland, FL, USA; Atlanta Braves relief pitcher Jordan Walden (52) against the Detroit Tigers at Joker Marchant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
"It’s not even halfway through the 2013 season, and it’s pretty obvious theAtlanta Braves got the better of their trade with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim to acquire Jordan Walden for Tommy Hanson.Walden has put together 10 straight scoreless appearances since coming off the disabled list on May 29. His ERA stands at 2.70, and in 23 1/3 innings, he’s struck out 26 and walked just four.Hanson, on the other hand, has posted a 5.10 ERA in just nine starts for the Angels while battling injuries."
Braves Mid-Season Top 20 Prospects
"1. Lucas Sims (3)- RHP (Rome Braves)2. Cody Martin (10)- RHP (Gwinnett Braves)3. J.R. Graham (1) – RHP (Mississippi Braves)4. Christian Bethancourt (2)- C (Mississippi Braves)5. Matt Lipka (7) – CF (Lynchburg Hillcats)"