MARINERS, BRAVES SWAP FOUR PLAYERS
The Seattle Mariners acquired outfielder Mallex Smith and pitcher Shae Simmons from the Atlanta Braves for pitchers Luiz Gohara and Thomas Burrows.
What does it give the Seattle Mariners
Simmons could be an intriguing addition to the Mariners bullpen in 2017, provided he can return to full strength following Tommy John surgery. He is a candidate to pitch in a setup role at some point this season. As for Smith, he is expected to be moved again (since the Mariners are already loaded with speedy outfielders).
What does it give the Atlanta Braves
For the Braves, this deal adds more pitching depth for the entire organization. Gohara is a potential stud starting pitcher, but is still a few years away. As for Burrows, he could be fast-tracked to MLB as a situational left-hander out of the bullpen. Atlanta is committed to Ender Inciarte in center field, making Smith expendable.
Fantasy impact
Smith's fantasy value remains high, though the uncertainty of where he will play in 2017 is a bit of a concern at this time. Gohara could be a fantasy gem down the road and should be picked in most fantasy keeper leagues this year. Simmons is a risky proposition due to his lack of height and injury history, but has intriguing stuff for a potential fantasy reliever. Burrows has little fantasy value at this time, but perhaps he can eventually become a factor out of the bullpen.
