The Atlanta Braves have acquired outfielder Preston Tucker from the Houston Astros in exchange for future considerations in the form of either cash considerations or a player to be named later. The Braves announced that they have designated right-handed pitcher Luke Jackson for assignment in a corresponding move.
Tucker, 27, found himself designated for assignment following the signing of Hector Rondon by the Astros. Tucker received 467 major league plate appearances during the 2015 and 2016 seasons in which he slashed an underwhelming .219/.274/.403. Tucker has shown the ability to hit for pretty solid power, as he has belted 17 home runs in the major leagues and has topped 20 home runs three times throughout his career in the minor leagues.
Tucker figures to be in the mix for a bench role for the Braves this spring. At this time, the only legitimate competition that Preston Tucker will have for a utility outfield role is Lane Adams. Unfortunately for Tucker, he is at a slight disadvantage seeing as how Lane Adams is out of minor league options and has played for the Braves, making the organization more comfortable with him. Tucker has one minor option remaining.
Luke Jackson, 26, was picked up last offseason in a three player trade with the Rangers last offseason that sent Tyrell Jenkins and Brady Feigl to Arlington. Jackson saw a rather significant amount of time in Atlanta pitching 50.2 innings with an underwhelming 4.62 ERA.
Based on his draft pedigree and his peripheral statistics from last season, it would be something of a shock to see him passed over on waivers. Expect to see him on the move on December 23, at the latest.
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