MLB Trade Rumors: Braves Asked Padres About Will Venable

Yesterday it was reported that the Atlanta Braves are looking to add infield and outfield depth this spring.  This has apparently led the Braves to check in with the San Diego Padres regarding outfielder Will Venable.  According to Jon Paul Morosi of Fox Sports, the Padres told the Braves that Venable is not available.

Earlier in the afternoon, Morosi tweeted that, according to sources, the Braves are “indeed looking for an outfielder”.  Right-hander Kris Medlen’s name has come up, but Morosi said the Braves are reluctant to deal their versatile pitcher.

Morosi also tweeted that the Braves would prefer to acquire an outfielder than can handle center.  Venable has played center during his time with the Padres, but he’s primarily viewed as a corner outfielder.

Morosi doesn’t seem to think Venable is likely to be traded this spring.  The outfielder has played well so far this exhibition season, and Morosi believes the left-handed hitter could be a breakout candidate for 2012.

Venable has shown flashes, but hasn’t been able to put it together over an entire season.  Over the 29-year-old’s 411 plate appearances in 2011, he hit at a clip of .246/.310/.395 with 30 extra base hits and 44 RBI’s while going 26 for 29 on the base paths.  Over his career, Venable is a .25/.321/.410 hitter.

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