Inter-Divison Swap

The Braves dealt Jeff Francouer to the Mets for Ryan Church.

Braves Side: Church is your prototypical Braves OF. He hits for no power, but for average (.280-.332-.375), but the move to Turner Field may actually help him hit for a little more (which is the 1st time I think that can be said of a hitter). Church has apparently graded out about even with Francouer defensively, but Frenchy has much better tools. Surprised this was all the return they could get. Church is solid, but is not the solution to the Braves problems even a little bit. Matt Diaz will be returning to a platoon role in right, likely with Church.

Mets Side: Francouer is an enigma. He isn't hitting for power and now goes to maybe the toughest ball park for home runs on the east coast. If he can hit gaps consistently, this could be a good move for him. He is hitting .250-.282-.352 on the season. He obviously still has potential and getting away from his hometown could be good for him. Francouer will likely get a shot as the everyday RF, as neither Tatis, Martinez or Sheffield will be playing there and Reed's stick is even worse.

Analysis: Braves didn't really get what there team needs and made a bad position a little bit below average instead. The Mets are making a reactionary move based off of injuries (Minaya quote: We really like the # of games Francouer plays) and are hoping to see him turn it around in a new place. I don't think there is a winner here. The Braves took all the risk and couldn't even get the Mets to throw in a Low-A arm or bat as a developmental guy. If Frenchy turns it around, this would be a steal for the Mets.