MLB Trade Deadline: Emilio Bonifacio, James Russell traded to Atlanta Braves
By Hayden Kane
The Chicago Cubs still had a couple moves up their sleeves. They found a partner in the Atlanta Braves, a contending team that had done little else in the time leading up to the non-waiver trade deadline, and apparently pulled off a deal in the waking moments before the deadline passed.
The Cubs have traded Emilio Bonifacio and James Russell to the Atlanta Braves, per Gordon Wittenmeyer.
Source: Russell and Bonifacio to Atlanta.
— Gordon Wittenmyer (@GDubMLB) July 31, 2014
Cubs get a minor-league catcher from Braves.
— Gordon Wittenmyer (@GDubMLB) July 31, 2014
With that the Braves add a couple things. For one they add a player who can play second base, which has been an issue from time to time, in addition to being able to play in the outfield. For a team that strikes out far too much, Bonifacio could also play a valuable role as a table-setter when he is in the lineup.
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Hey, he’s better than B.J. Upton, right?
As for Russell, in him the Braves add another arm to their already stout bullpen. In 44 appearances this season, the 28-year-old Russell has a 3.51 ERA and 7 K/9.
He is not necessarily an overwhelming guy, but he is a useful pitcher and contending teams can never have enough bullpen arms, especially when they can be acquired at a reasonable price. That is what the Braves will bank on by adding Russell to their group of relievers.
Be sure to stay tuned to FanSided’s MLB Rumors page to stay up to date with all the news from a trade deadline that was full of big moves.