Braves Strengthen Roster Ahead of Trade Deadline

The Atlanta Braves, currently leading the National League wild-card race, have bolstered their lineup by acquiring outfielder Jorge Soler and right-handed reliever Luke Jackson from the San Francisco Giants. This move reunites the players with the team that won the 2021 World Series. In exchange, the Braves sent left-hander Tyler Matzek and a minor league infielder to the Giants, enhancing their chances as the postseason approaches. In other significant trades, the Kansas City Royals secured veteran right-hander Michael Lorenzen from the Texas Rangers, who are struggling in third place in the AL West. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Dodgers, leading the NL West, added hard-throwing reliever Michael Kopech in a three-team deal that involved the Chicago White Sox and the St. Louis Cardinals. The Dodgers parted with three infield prospects to complete the transaction. The Milwaukee Brewers also made a notable move, acquiring right-hander Montas from the Cincinnati Reds, marking a rare trade between division rivals. The Seattle Mariners continued their active trade strategy by bringing in veteran Justin Turner from the Toronto Blue Jays, while the Houston Astros added left-hander Yusei Kikuchi from Toronto in exchange for several young prospects. Lorenzen, who has a career record of 45-44 with a 4.08 ERA, has transitioned from a starter to a reliever this season. Meanwhile, Kikuchi, a former first-round draft pick, has struggled with consistency but boasts a notable number of outfield assists, showcasing his defensive capabilities.