BRAVES LAND LEFTY MAHOLM
The Atlanta Braves acquired pitcher Paul Maholm, outfielder Reed Johnson and cash from the Chicago Cubs for pitchers Arodys Vizcaino and Jaye Chapman.
What does it give the Atlanta Braves
The Braves were in lengthy discussions with the Cubs for right-hander Ryan Dempster, but a deal could not be struck. Therefore, the Braves settled for veteran lefty Maholm instead. While not as good as Dempster, Maholm is a decent lefty who knows the National League quite well. In Johnson, the Braves also land a solid veteran outfielder to fill in anywhere needed. He's a good defender who can hit lefties fairly well. Atlanta also receives some money in this deal to off-set salaries.
What does it give the Chicago Cubs
Vizcaino is the key to the deal here for the Cubbies. He has been out since late March due to a serious elbow injury that required Tommy John surgery. While Atlanta moved him to the bullpen prior to the injury, his future in Chicago probably lies as a starter. He still has good upside, provided he rebounds from surgery nicely. As for Chapman, he is a solid bullpen prospect with good strikeout ability. This was a good deal for a rebuilding Cubs squad.
Fantasy impact
