The rumors are loose; Marlon Byrd has been claimed by a team from the New York Mets' waivers. Who's the mystery team? Is this a move that can get somebody over the hump and help them make a playoff push or increase their lead further in their division? Better yet, can this move push a team to a league pennant and World Series appearance? The Atlanta Braves, Pittsburgh Pirates and Cincinnati Reds make too much sense.
Okay, so the Braves weren't mentioned on this list, but come on? It almost makes too much sense for Atlanta. With Jason Heyward out for the remainder of the season and Byrd owed less than $150K for the remainder of the season, his production will come at no cost. Here are Byrd's numbers through 117 games in 2013: .285/.330/.518 with 21 home runs and 71 RBI. He's a presence in the outfield, playing great defense despite being 35 years old.
Justin Upton is in right field, leaving Evan Gattis in left field. Not only this, Schafer is in the leadoff spot and he's cooled off terribly in August. Since taking over for Heyward, Schafer is 3-22 with one RBI. The Braves pitching is great, but they will need offensive help, especially as the final month of the season approaches.
Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pirates are in need of offense. They are now in second place, half a game behind the St. Louis Cardinals. They are 12-10 in the month of August, giving the Cardinals room to make a move and they have taken full advantage. The Pirates have been held to just three runs in 11 of 22 games this month, which is why Byrd would make so much sense in the lineup, giving Pedro Alvarez and Andrew McCutchen some protection. Starling Marte is on the disabled list with a right-hand contusion.
Cincinnati Reds
Just 3.5 games behind in the standings, the Reds are also within striking distance. However, after their loss Monday night, the Cardinals' first place lead over the Reds is 3.5. The Reds were playing the division's best baseball, which is how they managed to cut their deficit down to as little as 2.5 games. The Reds could also use some offense on top of having Jay Bruce, Joey Votto and Brandon Phillips.
We are still awaiting the news on who claimed Byrd from waivers. We'll update you as soon as we figure something out.
