Braves News World

The Braves have returned the defective merchandise they received from the Brewers a year ago. The only problem is that this time they are getting pitcher Wes Obermueller in return, instead of top prospect Jose Capellan who they sent to Milwaukee for Dan Kolb originally. The 28-year-old Obermueller was 1-4 with a 5.26 ERA in 23 games for the Brewers last season. He did however post a 3-1 record with a 2.55 ERA in 9 games at Triple-A Nashville. He went 3-8 with a 5.93 ERA in 65 games with Atlanta in 2005. It’s a wonder the Braves got anything in return for Kolb who struggled with a 3-8 record and 5.93 ERA in 65 games for the Braves last season. It was likely only a matter of days before the Braves declined to tender a contract offer to Kolb making him a free agent.

Rafael Furcal bid the Braves goodbye as he signed a hefty 3-year, $39.5 million contract with the Dodgers. The Braves could not match the the Dodgers’ salary offer, which was apparently the most important factor in Furcal’s decision. Furcal’s departure means a new shortstop and/or leadoff hitter hitter will be at the top of John Schuerholz’s shopping list this holiday season. However, the Braves are by no means bereft of shortstop talent in the organization. Wilson Betemit is excelling in the Dominican Winter League this offseason, hitting .296 with 6 homers and 20 RBIs in 142 at-bats. 23-year-old phenom Yunel Escobar is expected to be ready for the major leagues sometime next season and 17-year-old Elvis Andrus may have the brightest future of them all.