Braves acquire Maholm, Johnson from Cubs

The Atlanta Braves have statisfied almost all of there needs via trade. 2 hours ago, first reported by Jon Morsi, the Braves acquired Lefty Starting pitcher Paul Maholm, and outfielder Reed Johnson. Atlanta now has found their starting pitcher in Maholm, who has only given up 5 earned runs in his last 7 outings. The Braves also acquired a solid bench bat in Reed Johnson, who can play all 3 outfield spots, and will give Bourn a day off at any given day, or Prado. The 35 year old veteran is hitting .307 this year, and is up for free agency at the end of they year. Maholm on the other hand, has a option for 2013, unless Atlanta wishes to dump him which is not likely. The Braves rotation will now look like this: Sheets, Hudson, Minor, Hanson, Maholm. A very solid rotation. The Braves have reportedly given up minor leauge pitchers Jaye Chapman, and Arydos Vizcaino will go to the Cubs. This is a great deal for a contender in Atlanta, and also the Braves are still looking to add a bullpen arm by the trade deadline at 4 PM tomorrow.

Trading deadline 5 days away, Braves going to buy

With the MLB Trading deadline coming fast, the Atlanta Braves made a trade that was going to bolster their starting pitching rotation. Only thing was, the player rejected that trade. The Atlanta Braves and the Chicago Cubs agreed to a trade that sent Randall Delgado to the Cubs for Veteran Ryan Dempster. Dempster does have a 10/5 trade veto which allows him to reject a trade to any team. The Braves were his second choice, as he told fellow Braves he wanted to come to Atlanta. So Frank Wren pulled the trigger only to found out Demp rejected the trade, hoping to be traded to the Dodgers, his first choice. The frustrated Braves have moved on from this deal, possibly for better as Dempster would have been a rental for a steep pitching prospect in Delgado. The Braves now are looking at other options. At the top of their wish list is Brewers starter Zack Greinke. The ace is a free agent to be, but is said to love Atlanta and would like to sign with them long term. Atlanta would have to offer up Julio Tehran along with another prospect which is steep, but its worth a World Series run. Greinke is most likely for Atlanta, but other options are James Shields from Tampa Bay, and Josh Johnson from the Marlins. The Braves are almost surely to add a Starter, along with a bullpen arm and a right handed bench bat. With a front line Ace along with an arm in the bullpen, and a veteran utility man, Atlanta has a shot to make a deep run in the Playoffs. More neews and rumors to come so stay tuned.

Braves still looking for Consistency in Starting Pitching

After having a monumental comeback, and beating the Nationals 11 to 10 in 11 innings, the Atlanta Braves are still looking for answers in their pitching. The only 3 consistent starters since the All-Star break have been Tim Hudson, Ben Sheets, and Mike Minor. Jair Jurjjens only lasted 2 innings and a third in a embarrasing 9 to 2 loss to the Nationals. With pitching in worry, Atlanta has been rumored to be the front runners for Cubs Starter Ryan Dempster. Dempster likes Atlanta, and could very well resign in Atlanta. If not Atlanta can use him as a chip to the playoffs, and then using the extra money to resign Center Fielder Micheal Bourn, and go after Brewer's ace, Zack Greinke, who is rumored to like Atlanta. The Braves and Nationals are the only 2 teams battling for a divison crown so far in the NL East. Its almost 100% true that Atlanta will acquire a pitcher at the deadline. Also the Braves are looking for bullpen depth, and a much needed bat for their depleted bench, with the loss of Matt Diaz, and struggles of Eric Hinske. Rick Ainkel was DFA by the Nationals. The Braves have intrest in the veteran, but prefer a right handed bat.

Sheets makes brilliant first start back, Braves sweep the Mets.

When General Manager Frank Wren signed Ben Sheets, he called it a "low risk high reaward" signing. So far the high reward has been huge. Sheets dazzled in his first start in over 2 years. Sheets went 6 innings, gave up 2 hits, walked one, and struck out 5. He did not give up a run, and could possibly slow Wren's pitching search down. Atlanta would still like to acquire a starter, but Their focus might change from Zack Grenike to Fransisco Liriano. Liriano can be at the tip top of his game,I.e stiking out 15, or underperform at times. Atlanta has scouted him numerous times, and he could sign in Atlanta for a few million less. While Wren continues to search for a pitcher, Atlanta has gone 7 and 0 in their last 7. In trade news, Atlanta has found relif for their shortsop positon by acquiring Paul Janish the Reds Triple A shortstop. He will be the starter Until Andrelton Simmons comes back from his pinky injury. He will at least be out for 6 weeks. Atlanta gave Cincinnati Triple A pitcher Todd Redmond.

Braves notes: Greinke, Sheets

With the trading deadline just weeks away, the Braves are trying to add a veteran starting pitcher to give them a playoff oppurtunity. With only 2 starters as of now that bring consistencey in every start in Hanson and Hudson, Braves GM Frank Wren knows the club could use another starter. Atlanta has made news by signing 33 year old  Veteran and All-Star Ben Sheets to a minor leauge deal. He makes his first start for  Mississipi tonight. Wren says to expect Sheets pitching in the Braves Starting rotation within the next 2 weeks. In Trade news, the Braves top target Zack Greinke was scouted 2 days back in his start against Miami. He didn't pitch exceptially well, but he got the no-decision and has not lost in 22 starts at the Brewers homepark. Greinke's old teamate and unnamed friend said he "loves" Atlanta and also has a house close to their spring training facility. If the Braves can resign Greinke, look for them to trade one of Tehran/Delgado/Minor to the Brewers. If this deal somehow dies, look for Atlanta to go after veteran south paw, 28 year old Fransisco Liriano. Check back for the latest Braves news and make sure to vote Micheal Bourn to the All- Star game!!!! GO BRAVES!

With Beachy gone Braves look to Pitching Market

The Braves were struck with bad luck 2 weeks back when Brandon Beachy found out he had a partially torn ligament and would have to undrgo Tommy John Surgery. Braves GM Frank Wren knew the Pitching Market was their best hope to maintain a strong chance at the NL East title. With the ineffectiveness of Mike Minor and Randall Delgado of late, Wren sends more and more calls out to find avaliable starting pitching. Atlanta also has to worry if Jair Jurjjens can keep his streak going, or if he will go back to his old habits from April. With Tim Hudson an Tommy Hanson the only consistent pitchers of late, here are the Braves top 5 pitching targets.
Zack Greinke: Greinke is at the top of the Braves wish list, but Atlanta only wants him if they can resign him to a 4 or 5 year deal. Atlanta would have to give up alot in return, but he would be worth it for the long run.
Ryan Dempster: Dempster has been nothing but brilliant this season keeping his ERA microsopic, but he is on the DL right now with a leg strain. The Braves still are "very" interested in Dempster if he would agree to a long term deal in Atlanta.
Matt Garza: Garza, Dempsters teammate also is high on Atlanta's wish list. He is signed through next year which is music to the Braves ears. The only concern they have is if he can control his temper and keep it calm.
Fransisco Liriano: The Braves have been seen multipule times scouting Liriano this past month, and he would be perfect in Atlanta's eyes. His run support is one of the lowest in the leauge, and coming to Atanta the wins could stack up for the southpaw.
Jason Vargas: Atlanta will not stop calling or scouting Vargas. They like everything about him, and how he is signed through 2013. The Seattle Mariners wont ask for as much as the Cubs or Brewers would, which is a plus to Atlanta.
Vargas or Liriano seem like the top 2 canidates to come to Atlanta price wise, and if Atlanta can acquire any of these pitchers  via Trade, the 2012 Season for the Atlanta Braves will be one to remember. Keep checking back everyday as the rumors pile in! Go Braves!!!
Questions? comment below or send an email to hawksfan14@gmail.com

Braves update

The Braves finally ended their dreadful 8 game losing streak tonight with a 5 to 4 victory over the Cardinals. Bourn hit his 5th homerun, and Uggla blasted his 8th. Atlanta was tied for last, but now looks to climb the leader board once again! It looks like the Braves wll browse the trade market for pitchers, but they have sent down Kris Medlen to get ready to pitch in the starting rotation. Changes are being made as the Braves fight for the NL East lead! Go braves!

Latest Braves updates

The Braves suffered a tough loss losing to the Reds 3 to 1 after a strong outing by Randall Delgado. Johnny Venters gave up two runs and suffered the loss. Coming into todays action though, Atlanta had just swept the St. Louis Cardnials, and are now a half game out of first place for the NL East. They howver have a big lead in the wildcard. In the Braves rumor mill, they signed 27 year old veteran Felix Pie, who has been hitting a .330 clip this year, and hit for the cycle in 2009 with the Baltimore Orioles. When deemed ready to come to the bigs, Pie will serve as a bench player providing speed, and many starts giving guys like Prado, Bourn, or Heyward the day off. Agent Scott Boras has indeed spoken to Frank Wren about resigning a red hot Micheal Bourn. A deal is very well possible, but more likely when the season comes to a halt. If a contract can be signed the Braves are looking at a 5 year 60 millon dollar deal which could conceal the arguabely best leadoff hitter in the bigs. Your thoughts? Comment below, and GO BRAVES!!!

Latest Braves update

The Braves had an ugly start to their 2012 Season Campaign. Although, after an 0 and 4 start, they have gone 14 and 5. They stand half a game out of first place. The Nationals hold a 0.5 game lead at 14 and 8. Atlanta has seen some great production out of their lineup. The biggest asset has been Micheal Bourn who is now batting .338 after a slow 3 for 24 start. Freddie Freeman is still clobbering the ball as well. The Braves start a 3 games series tonight as the Phillies come to town. First pitch is at 7, and Brandon Beachy (2-1) 1.05 ERA goes againt Cole Hamels (3-1) 2.73 ERA. If your curious about potential trades for the Braves, as of now it looks like we will wait to deal until July. Most Braves fans also worry about what will happen if Micheal Bourn walks after this years season and becomes a free agent. Here are the top 4 canidates to replace him.
1. B.J Upton
2. Juan Pierre
3. Shane Victarino
4. Chris Young
We all hope Bourn comes back, but this is a bunch of guys the Braves like and you could see one in a Braves uniform in July! GO BRAVES!!

Braves looking for answers

The Atlanta Braves were off to their worst start in franchise history since 2003, when they were swept in their opening series. They then lost their first game against the Astros. The Braves though, have won their last 2 games and are starting to come alive. Micheal Bourn however is off to a slow 3 for 24 start, while Jason Heyward hit 2 bombs last night. It will take a while for all Braves players to get into the swing of things. One more piece to the puzzle and Atlanta could be looking at a great season. Frank Wren has not made many major moves, but he has ceartinly looked at the market out there. He has inquired on Will Venable, only to hear he was not avaliable. They also looked at Marlon Byrd, but nothing has come from their yet. They looked at asking for Xavier  Nady, nothings come from their either. BJ Upton is still a possile target as the Braves look for that World Series piece to the puzzle. Today is an off day but Friday they start a 3 game home series with the Brewers! GO BRAVES!

Braves lose again and are swept

The Atlanta Braves came into opening week looking to start fresh after their September collapse. It was all but there. The Braves got swept, and were almost shut out 3 times. Today Jonathan Niese flirted with a no hitter until he lost command and the Braves finally got to him. It was too late though. Atlanta is still struggling and were all wondering how to fix it. But time will come, and the Braves look to start it tomorrow as they play the Astros at 7:05. Brandon Beachy gets the ball. Go Braves!!!!

Braves fall to the mets 1 to 0

The braves came into opening day looking to start strong after a huge collapse last year. It wasnt there. Atlanta lost to the New York Mets 1 to 0. Tommy Hanson had an impressive outing though. Johan Santana was a beast going 5 innings. The braves had 4 hits. They play the mets again Saturday. Go braves!!!!

Braves sign Chad Durbin

The Atlanta braves are staying busy, and have inked relief pitcher Chad Durbin to a major league deal. This was the last piece to the bullpen for Atlanta. Now all they need is a outfielder, and a shortstop. The braves are almost there! In other news Tyler pastornicky will start a shortstop this year, and Randall Delgado won the fifth rotation spot and Julio Tehran is sent down to triple A. Check back for the latest news and a chat will be live Saturday at 2 where you can ask me all baseball questions!

Braves sign veteran Hernandez and acquire Francisco

The braves have been busy of late. They have signed 37 year old veteran Livan Hernandez to a 1 year deal. He will serve in the bullpen and be able to make spot appearances. Also the braves have acquired third baseman power hitter Juan Francisco from the reds for JJ Hoover. Fransisco is a power hitter who will spell Prato at third untill chipper returns. These two acquisitions are just another plus to the braves advantage to hit the post season! I wouldn't be surprised if Atlanta makes one more signing or trade though! Make sure to check back here and go braves!

Braves looking for bullpen and bench help

The Braves are still looking for the last few pieces of the puzzle to go into the 2012 season. They have made some minor trades of late and here they are.
The Chicago White Sox sent outfielder Christian Marrero to the Braves for cash.
The White Sox also traded minor league infielder Greg Paiml to the Braves for cash 
The Indians  acquired right-hander Jairo Asencio  from the Braves for cash.
Now that the Braves have completed their minor leauge moves here are the players on their wish list.
Wish List: Xavier Nady: The Braves have shown late intrest in Nady, the right fieleder of the Nationals, hoping he could be a fit for a bench role.
Will Venable: Right Fielder of the San Diego Padres, Braves asked about him, only to hear he was not avaliable.
Marlon Byrd: Would make most sense, a 34 all-star outfielder. Would most likely play leftfield with Bourn in center and Heyward in right. When Chipper returns it would be unknown as to where he would go.
 No pitcher has been a big deal of intrest yet to the Braves, but after Vizcanio will have to miss the season with Tommy John surgery, its safe to say the Braves need one more bullpen guy.
In other news: Mike Minor will start the season finale against the Mets. 5th spot canidate in Braves rotation is unknown. This would appear to be the rotation until Hudson gets back.
1. Tommy Hanson
2. Jair Jurjjens
3. Mike Minor
4. Brando Beachy
5.Delgado/Tehran
Check back for more news, and my opinion on who the Braves should target around the trade deadline.

Braves, Nationals trying to acquire Byrd

Recent reports say the Braves and Nationals are trying to acquire 34 year old centerfielder Marlyn Bryd. A great pick up from my perspective. The Nationals made an offer, but it appears it was rejected. The Braves are picking up in talks with the Cubs on Byrd. More news will come as we get a clearer image of whats happening.

Spring Training Round up

With a week left to go in spring training heres an in depth analyasis of the Atlanta Braves. The Braves have been shakey starting out. They stand at 8 and 14 near the bottom of the Spring standings. In retrospect it is spring training but it was a little unexcpected. Heres the latest news and and in depth look on some of the players.
 Chipper Jones: Tore his left miniscious and had to undergo surgery. Announced before inury this will indeed be his last proffesional baseball season. (Turns 40 in April) Should only miss first week of the 2012 season campaign.
Jason Heyward: Looks a whole lot better at the plate. Still has some rough patches, and thinks about his mechanics at the plate still insider Buster Olney reports. Look for him to have a better year, but still will be a work in progress.
Micheal Bourn: Has been quiet, but is still doing his job. He leads the Braves scoring 10 runs this spring. His contract expires after this year, but look for the Braves to sign him to a 3 year deal after the seaoson, probably around 25 million.
Tyler Pastornicky: Has struggled mightly at the plate so far, and now Andrealton Simmons might be the starting shortstop opening day. Nothing final yet.
Jack Wilson: Will be the back up shortstop to start the year. His calf feels fine, and looks to be on the active roster opening day.
Randall Delgado: Has struggled but looks to be the leading canidate over Julio Tehran for the fifth pitching spot in the starting rotation.
Mike Minor: Has had a great spring, pitched tremendously. Although he appears not to be the fifth man in the rotation. Look for him to get aggravated, ask for a trade, and end up on the Cubs in a swap for Marlyn Byrd if Atlanta is willing to pick up the salary.
 Trade Rumors: The Braves inquired on Padres outfielder Will Venable only to hear hes not avaliable. They are still looking for infield and outfield depth. Don't be suprised if the All-Star Adam Jone's name comes back up in trade talks. Also look for Delmon Young someone the Braves didn't want, but has had a great year so far in Spring. This is the latest news on the Braves, questions feel free to send an email to hawksfan14@gmail.com. Go Braves!

Rumors and updates

Well, with 2 days until spring games the braves have been a busy bunch. Tommy Hanson was in a one car accident and has a grade 1 concussion. He failed his first test and takes another one today. But that's not all of the pitcher updates. Pitched mike minor has said if he is not the 5th starting pitcher going into the season he would like to be traded. This has annoyed braves people. If Atlanta does get to trade him I say go for Adam jones of the orioles. Prospects are all the orioles can hope for. If this happens the braves not only bolster their lineup but could push for the world series. Just having the playoffs expanded why not capitalize? In rumor news the braves top free agent target next year is Nick Swisher Right fielder of the New York Yankees. Good or bad? Well have to find out! Check back in as I will try to post daily as much as possible. Go braves!

Latest news, and Fantasy draft

Only 3 days away from pitchers and catchers reporting to spring training here is the Braves latest news. Tommy Hanson has changed his pause in his delivery and now goes full throttle.If your wondering who will be a back up outfielder candidate for Bourn, your top 2 are Jose Constanza, or Luis Durango. The Braves look to come back strong and we have all the tools. In latest news, if Jair Jurrjens appears healthy in spring training, Frank Wren will be getting numerous calls on him, as Atlanta still looks for that one outfield bat they've desperately needed. More updates will come as spring training rolls along.
In other news, fantasy baseball leagues for ESPN have just commenced, and I am looking for some spots to fill. If your interested send an email to me. hawksfan14@gmail.com. There are two divisions of 10 teams. The first and second place winners will contend for a prize at the end of the year. (Depending on the number of teams) Make sure to send me an email, because spots are going quick! As Spring Training arrives, its time for the players to spring out. GO BRAVES!

Braves looking forward to a good season

After suffering a tough defeat in not making the playoffs last season with a 10 game wild card lead going into August, the Braves are looking to regroup. It was a slow off season for Atlanta with rumors flying that Martin Prado or Jair Jurrjens would be traded before Spring training. GM Frank Wren tried to make some trades, but just couldn't find a suitor that matched up. The Braves and Orioles had talks about Prado, JJ, and a prospect for Adam Jones and JJ. Hardy but talks fell slowly. They aren't officially over, but it doesn't look likely at this point. The Braves did make some minor moves. Their biggest move was trading away fading veteran pitcher Derek Lowe to the Indians for Single A pitcher Chris Jones and cash. Atlanta was also able to resign Jack Wilson to play back up at shortstop for rookie Tyler Pastornicky who will be given a shot at the starting job at the start of the season. Eric Hinske's option was picked up and he will be back for at least another year. Atlanta also added some minor league players who have played at the professional level, and have spring training invites.
Luis Durango a speedy outfielder who can attribute to the braves as a back up and utilityhitter. Here are his career numbers: .292 AVG., .361 OBP, .292 SLG. He has also stole 7 out of 8 bases in his MLB time. Some other notable pick ups this off season are: Dusty Hughes, Adam Russel (Relief Pitchers), and Drew Sutton utility infielder. In other Braves news they unveiled there newest jerseys.( If you look to the right hand side of the blog there are all the braves links to updates) If your wondering at what the projected Atlanta Braves lineup will be this year here is my opinion.
1. Micheal Bourn CF
2. Martin Prado LF
3. Chipper Jones 3B
4. Brian McCann C
5. Dan Uggla 2B
6. Freddie Freeman 1B
7. Jason Heyward RF
8. Tyler Pastornicky
9. Pitcher
This is my opinion but well see for oursleves soon enough! Pitchers and catchers report to camp February19th! Check her for all your Braves latest news and GO BRAVES!!!!