Atlanta Braves Update: Evan Gattis Traded to the Astros
The Atlanta Braves have traded slugger Evan Gattis to the Houston Astros, sources reported. In the trade, the Braves also sent a minor league player, right-hander James Hoyt. In return, the Braves acquired three minor leaguers, right-hander Mike Foltynewicz, right-hander Andrew Thurman, and third baseman Rio Ruiz.
News on the trade was initially reported by David O'Brien of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
News regarding the trade was announced when Gattis passes a physical checkup Wednesday.
The 28-year-old has played in 213 games with the Braves and recorded 43 homeruns. He has mainly remained under the radar until his MLB debut in 2013. During that year, he his 21 homeruns. In 2014, Gattis hit .263/.317/.493 over 369 at-bats. He suffered from a back injury during the second half of the season.
Gattis, who has played catcher, first base and left field, will join an impressive Astros lineup made up of All-Star second baseman Jose Altuve, outfielder George Springer and slugger Chris Carter.
The Astros have had a busy offseason, rebuilding their lineup. They traded away their star outfielders Jason Heyward and Justin Upton. With this trade, the Braves hope to solidify third base with Ruiz, 20. The minor leaguer has a career .790 OPS in three season. He batted .290 with 11 homeruns at high Class A Lancaster in 2014.
