The Kotsay trade, and other observations

*The deal with Boston is all but done, reports Gordon Edes. The Braves will get a minor league pitcher in return, though who that is remains unknown. If it turns out to be Michael Bowden, I'd be ecstatic. Don't count on that happening.

Kotsay acquitted himself well as a Brave, though it would be nice to have Joey Devine back (0.85 ERA in 31 innings). He'll probably be Oakland's closer next season. It wouldn't be fair to rip Wren for that deal, however, as Devine has probably benefitted from a change in scenery. And at the time of the trade, the bullpen appeared to be a strength, with TRFKABMF, Moylan and Acosta anchorning the late innings.

*Apologies to Brandon Webb, but the two best pitchers in the NL right now were American Leaguers last month. Rich Harden has been every bit as good as Sabathia, especially now that he's working deeper into games. In 128 IP, the dominant righy has given up 85 hits, striking out 162.

*Carlos Marmol can make a strong case for Cy Young consideration, with only 32 hits allowed in 71 innings. He's struck out 93.

*Coming into Tuesday's games, Chipper and Frenchy had 120 RBI combined, five more than Josh Hamilton.

--CB

Comments

[Viva Rufino Linares!]

Does anyone think we may have a little Spring Training tryout in September between Anderson and Schafer? I'm glad to see Schafer not let the suspension ruin his entire 2008 and would like to see him in Atlanta soon.

[rankin' rob]

I hope Francouer bounces back, but I think he needs the same type of change of scenery. His year-long slump is almost entirely mental, and playing most of his games in his hometown does not help him.

[PepeFreeUs]

Count Z can leave with his head held high. He'll always be a Brave to me.