The Atlanta Braves acquired reliever Scott Downs from the Los Angeles Angels for minor-league pitcher Cory Rasmus, the Braves announced Monday.
Scott Downs trade: Braves acquire LHP from Angels
Downs should provide Atlanta with a quality left-handed reliever to help replace Jonny Venters and Eric O`Flaherty.
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Downs has pitched well as a left-handed specialist for the Angels, posting a 1.84 ERA in 43 appearances this season. The 12-year veteran made 29 consecutive scoreless appearances earlier this year, and owns a career 3.47 ERA.
More Braves: Talking Chop on the Downs trade
Jonny Venters and Eric O`Flaherty entered the year as the two best lefties in the Atlanta bullpen, but both suffered season-ending injuries in May. Alex Wood provided the Braves with a quality pen southpaw after the injuries, but is now being stretched out to start.
Rasmus, the younger brother of Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Colby Rasmus, has pitched well in Triple-A Gwinnett. The 25-year-old reliever has a 1.72 ERA with 14 saves, striking out 48 batters in 36 2/3 innings.
Atlanta called Rasmus up for a brief period of time earlier in the year. The right-hander struggled, surrendering six runs on eight hits over 6 2/3 innings before being optioned back to Triple-A.
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