Thoughts on Rafael Soriano

As predicted, the Braves couldn't really afford Rafael Soriano after signing Wagner and Saito, so they had to trade one. Right now, it looks like he's headed to Tampa Bay, probably to close. The Braves were really hoping to grab draft pick compensation from Rafael Soriano signing with someone else. However, they could have done worse, as they most likely get Jesse Chavez in return. This is really a win-win trade. The Braves were able to shed the money, and pick up a decent arm in return, the Rays grab a potential closer for a reasonable salary without having to forfeit a draft pick to his former team.

Braves sign Saito

Atlanta Braves just made another splash on the free agent market, signing Takashi Saito to a one year contract.

This is a low-cost, low risk signing for the Atlanta Braves, who've now successfully replaced both Mike Gonzalez and Rafael Soriano in their bullpen. The only really problem they run at this point is if both Mike Gonzalez and Rafael Soriano accept arbitration. Yes the bullpen would be good, but it'd cost them over $20 million to employ all 4.

In all reality though, the chances of one of those two, let alone both, returns is very low.