2011 MLB Trade Rumors: Braves, Rockies Discussing Martin Prado

According to Troy Renck of The Denver Post, the Colorado Rockies have shown interest in Atlanta Braves’ infielder Martin Prado.  While the clubs haven’t exchanged names, Renck says the teams are expected to keep the lines of communication open.

It was rumored last week that Atlanta was willing to trade players in order to free up salary and improve their outfield.  The Braves already moved Derek Lowe, and Mark Bowman of MLB.com said last week that Atlanta is willing to listen to trade offers for Prado and starting pitcher Jair Jurrjens.  Both Prado and Jurrjens are set to make close to $5 million next season.

Renck says the Rockies could potentially use Prado at second or third base, both of which are areas of need.  While Prado’s bat plays a lot better at second than in a corner outfield position, he would be relegated to the latter in Atlanta due to the presence of Dan Uggla.

In exchange for Prado, Renck speculates that the Braves could target the Rockies’ outfield depth.  Renck names Seth Smith and Charlie Blackmon as possible trade candidates, noting that Blackmon would give the Braves their center fielder of the future if they decide not to keep Michael Bourn.

Prado would be a nice addition for the Rockies considering they could slide him into second base.  Though the 28-year-old had a down year in 2011, Prado had maintained a batting average and OPS north of .300 and .800 from 2008-2010 and owns a career line of .293/.341/.434.

For more on the Braves and Rockies, be sure to check out Tomahawk Take and Rox Pile.