Justin Upton is finally on the move, having been traded from the Atlanta Braves to the San Diego Padres. Yahoo! Sports’ Jeff Passan first reported that a deal was close, with FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal confirming that he was heading to San Diego.
In return for the coveted outfielder, the Braves will receive left-hander Max Fried, middle infielder Jace Peterson, third baseman Dustin Peterson and outfielder Mallex Smith. The Padres will also reportedly receive another minor leaguer from Atlanta.
The move represents the completion of San Diego’s drastic outfield shift this offseason. They’ve already traded for Matt Kemp and landed Wil Myers this winter. Upton, who will be entering a contract season in 2015, presumably takes over in left field with Kemp in center and Myers in right. While none of the trio is defensively gifted, all are dangerous with the bat and capable of bringing tremendous excitement to San Diego.
Upton’s been the subject of trade rumors for much of the offseason. John Hart, Atlanta’s new president of baseball operations, has chosen to break the franchise apart in order to solidify a stronger future – specifically looking ahead to 2017 when the club is set to open their new stadium. Jason Heyward being traded was the first step in that direction. Upton’s departure represents another one.
On the other side of the spectrum sits Padres’ GM A.J. Preller. As quickly as Billy Beane has traded away talent, Preller has acquired it. He’s injected energy and the hope of contention since taking over the GM responsibilities in August. Upton could walk after the 2015 season, but this is a gutsy move that has the potential to pay dividends. Upton may help the Padres reach the playoffs next season. If he enjoys his new teammates and the city on top of a possible playoff run, he might be inclined to stay.
For a look at the players heading to Atlanta in the deal, here’s a quick rundown:
Fried is a talented 20-year-old pitcher recovering from Tommy John surgery that will keep the southpaw out for most of 2015. Jace Peterson can play second base or shortstop. He struggled in a brief sting with the Padres in 2014, batting just .113 in 53 at bats. Dustin Peterson (no relation to Jace) plays third base and is only 20-years-old. He spent 2014 at Class-A, has a quick bat and offensive upside. Smith is a speedster with 169 stolen bases in his 265 career games in the minors.
These are undeniably exciting times for the Padres. After suffering in both attendance and contention, Preller is looking to shift the franchise around. For at least 2015, Upton will be a gigantic factor for his new team.