Braves trade for Nate McLouth...Hanson to start Saturday

The Atlanta Braves and Pittsburgh Pirates have reached an agreement to trade for outfielder Nate McLouth. Nate McLouth is coming off a terrific 2008 season in which he tallied 26 HR's and 96 RBI's while maintaing a .276 batting average. In 2008 he lead the National League in doubles with 46, was sixth in the majors in runs scored and won a Gold Glove. 

According to an MLB official the Braves are sending Charlie Morton, Gorkys Hernandez and Jeff Locke to Pittsburgh for All-Star Nate McLouth. 

McLouth did sign a three-year extension with the Pirates in February. Here is the breakdown: 

2009 - $3.5 million ($2 million base and $1.5 million bonus)

2010 - $4.5 million

2011 - $7.75 million ($6.5 million base with $1.25 million buyout in 2012)

2012 - $9.4 million club option

Frank Wren did suggest that he will be a leadoff hitter; my guess is Bobby will utilize him as leadoff when McCann is in the lineup and bat him cleanup when McCann has the day off. 

As for Tommy Hanson; the Braves top pitching prospect is getting the call to the big-leagues. He will start Saturday vs. the Brewers. Hanson will move into the rotation as the 5th starter and his roommate will be Kris Medlen. Tommy has been fantastic pitching for Gwinnett posting a 1.49 ERA while striking out 90 batting and only issuing 17 walks in 66 1/3 innings.