Braves Trade Yunel Escobar, Jo-Jo Reyes To Blue Jays For Alex Gonzalez And Two Prospects

When news spread of this morning’s Yunel Escobar/Alex Gonzalez trade, internet critics rushed to make fun of the Braves for selling so low on a promising young shortstop. Talking Chop explains why, from Atlanta’s perspective, they see it as a justifiable, helpful deal:

Something to keep in mind, in the words of Peter Hjort:

Reyes - a left-handed pitcher - has battled a few leg injuries, but he throws four pitches and can ramp his fastball into the low-90s, giving him a little bit of potential. Meanwhile, Collins is a 20 year old relief prospect with big numbers and a deceptive delivery but limited raw stuff, while Pastornicky is a 20 year old middle infield prospect who’s currently getting by in high-A ball.

Gonzalez has a $2.5m option for 2011, while Escobar will be under Toronto’s control for the next three seasons. At first glance, the trade seems to be a win for the Blue Jays, as Escobar is a good candidate to bounce back and provide a solid contribution from short on the cheap. On the other hand, Bobby Cox and the rest of the Braves are likely thrilled to be relieved of a very frustrating young player.