The Atlanta Braves might have found another guy at the leadoff spot and corner outfield as rumors have swirled of the team's interest in trading for Emilio Bonifacio of the Toronto Blue Jays.
What makes Bonifacio attractive aside from his speed and glove is the possibility that the six-year veteran will become a backup north of the border as Toronto is absolutely packed with talent and starters.
The outfields are jammed with Raja Davis, Melky Cabrera, Colby Rasmus and Jose Bautista. Then at second base they acquired Maicer Izturis for three years and $9 million, who Bonifacio will likely backup.
Bonifacio hit .258, had a .330 on-base percentage and stole 30 bases getting caught only three times in 64 games. He committed only one error in 51 games in centerfield, playing over 400 innings in the outfield.
The biggest issue herefinding out if the Blue Jays want to trade Bonifacio or want to trade period. They are still fresh off a 12-player deal with the Miami Marlins.
Walden for Bonifacio?
Without a doubt, the Braves have a lot of pitchers in their rotation and could help the Blue Jays' bullpen.
They recently acquired Jordan Walden for their former No. 1 pitching prospect, Tommy Hanson.
The Braves' bullpen had the 2nd lowest ERA at 2.76, while the Blue Jays had the sixth worst bullpen ERA in the majors posting a 4.33 ERA.
Atlanta's acquisition of Walden was confusing. The help is great, but couldn't they get an offensive player for Hanson instead of another pitcher, let alone a relief pitcher?
Walden recorded 32 saves in 2011, so he could help the Blue Jays in that department as they only had 29 saves in the 2012 season.
In other Braves news, Eric Hinske, who was great off the bench in 2010 and 2011, signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks.