Just when I thought that John Hart couldn’t possibly do anything dumber than pulling off that head-scratching deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Miami Marlins, he went out of his way and totally redeemed himself!
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The Cleveland Indians have traded Nick Swisher and Michael Bourn to the Atlanta Braves for Chris Johnson. Both players were considered likely candidates to clear waivers due to their high salaries, opening the door for the teams to complete a waiver-wire deal. He’s now on the 15-day disabled list. Johnson will compete with Giovanny Urshela and Lonnie Chisenhall for time at third base with Cleveland, and also provides an option at first base behind Carlos Santana. Since Freeman’s return to the 15-Day DL, defense at first has been a disaster.
Also heading to Atlanta is the speedy outfielder Bourn. Though he is only hitting.
After almost three seasons in Cleveland, Swisher was a hitting.
The former prized piece of the Oakland Athletics organization according to Moneyball, Swisher has been an All-Star and a World Series Champion with the New York Yankees organization. The Braves pick up a couple of reclamation projects – one of which, Bourn, played for them previously – and some cash relief to make gambles on them a bit more palatable. He has two years remaining on his current deal at $7.5 million and $9 million, respectively, with an option for a third year at $10 million. Though he was only hitting.
The Cleveland Indians are making major moves. Along with Swisher, he signed a four-year, $48 million contract prior to the 2013 season.
Bourn, 32, hit. 246 with 13 stolen bases for the Tribe this season. Bourn’s deal has not been much better.
Welcome to Atlanta, Nick and welcome back, Michael.
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Bourne is the other player going to Atlanta (along with cash considerations).
