METS, BRAVES MAKE RARE DIVISIONAL SWAP
The New York Mets acquired infielder Juan Uribe and infielder/outfielder Kelly Johnson from the Atlanta Braves for pitchers John Gant and Robert Whalen.
What does it give the New York Mets
The Mets are starving for more offense, so it makes some sense that they went after veteran bats such as Uribe and Johnson at this time. After all, Uribe can be a short-term replacement for David Wright (who may not make it back in 2015 from a spinal injury) at the hot corner, while the left-handed-hitting Johnson can play all over the field and add a little pop.
What does it give the Atlanta Braves
The Braves are only 6.5 games out of the division lead in the National League East, and only 3.5 games behind the Mets, yet decided to sell a pair of veteran hitters to their rivals in exchange for a pair of pitching prospects. Gant has some upside as a starting pitcher and will only turn 23 next month, while Whalen is even younger and longer-range prospect with potential.
Fantasy impact
Johnson's fantasy value may take the biggest hit because he was a semi-regular with the Braves this season, while Uribe's value will disintegrate as soon as Wright returns. Gant and Whalen are radar-worthy as potential keepers, while Joey Terdaslovich and Chris Johnson might benefit the most in Atlanta from the departures.
