Hey, when a contender makes a trade it’s news. Even if there’s only one player involved (so far) and he’s not likely to see much playing time ...
Braves Trade For Erstwhile Outfielder Matt Diaz
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Braves have completed a 2-player trade. Braves get Matt Diaz and cash from the Pirates for a player to be named later. Welcome back Matt!
Atlanta Braves
Braves
Welcome back, indeed. After coming up with the Rays and playing briefly with the Royals, Diaz made his bones with the Braves, hitting .305/.353/.461 over five seasons in Atlanta. Diaz’s work there, and especially his work against left-handed pitchers, was enough to get the outfielder a two-year, $4.25-million contract with the Pirates.
But as many things as went well for the Pirates in 2011 -- until August, anyway -- Diaz wasn’t one of them. Somewhat bizarrely, Diaz hasn’t hit a single home run in 216 at-bats. Still, his successes must still seem fresh among Braves management. The club doesn’t really need another outfielder, but Diaz will team with Eric Hinske to give the club a sort of veteran pinch-hitting platoon. Don’t be surprised if Diaz winds up on the postseason roster. And who knows, maybe he’ll even hit a home run this year.
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