According to Kiley McDaniel of FanGraphs, the rebuilding Atlanta Braves have traded struggling outfielder, Melvin (formerly BJ) Upton and star closer, Craig Kimbrel to the San Diego Padres. In return, the Braves will recieve Cameron Maybin, Carlos Quentin, Matt Wisler, Jordan Paroubeck, the 41st pick in the draft, and substantial financial relief with Upton’s contract largely, if not, entirely off the books. The Braves will immediately designate Quentin for assignment in a cash saving effort.
Source: Braves have traded Craig Kimbrel and B.J. Upton to the Padres
— Kiley McDaniel (@kileymcd) April 5, 2015
The move makes sense for the rebuilding Braves, who would have no use for the all-star closer, especially when his market value is high. Melvin Upton will be reunited with his brother, Justin, who was traded in December. Melvin Upton never quite fit in Atlanta, and the Braves have been looking for a partner for some time now. While losing Kimbrel will certainly hurt, it may very well be necessary for the future of the organization.
For the Padres, they fill their last true hole as they complete a busy offseason of trades for new GM, AJ Preller. Craig Kimbrel is considered by some to be one of if not, the best, closers in all of baseball. Adding Kimbrel certainly helps the Padres as they seek to make the playoffs for the first time since 2006.
Confirmed: #Padres get Upton, Kimbrel. #Braves get Carlos Quentin, Cameron Maybin, Wisler, draft pick No. 41 and Minor League OF Paroubeck.
— Corey Brock (@FollowThePadres) April 5, 2015
What a way to start the season. A shocking move on Opening Night.
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