GAUSMAN GOES TO THE BRAVES
The Atlanta Braves acquired pitchers Kevin Gausman and Darren O'Day from the Baltimore Orioles for catcher Brett Cumberland, infielder Jean Carlos Encarnacion, pitchers Evan Phillips and Bruce Zimmermann, and international bonus pool money in 2018-19.
What does it give the Atlanta Braves
Gausman will help Atlanta's rotation, as he was a top prospect not very long ago. A move to the National League should help him regain past form. As for O'Day, he is out for the season but could become an intriguing part of Atlanta's bullpen in 2019 (provided he regains 100 percent health next year).
What does it give the Baltimore Orioles
Baltimore received a lot of quantity here, but the keys may be possible future catcher Cumberland and possible future third baseman Encarnacion. Both have some further developing to do, but both have promise. Phillips could help the bullpen fairly soon, while Zimmermann is a candidate for the pitching staff down the road. The bonus pool money should also help the Orioles for the future.
Fantasy impact
Gausman, Cumberland, Encarnacion and Phillips are all now in better situations following this trade. Gausman could really blossom in Atlanta and should be scooped up quickly if he was dropped in some leagues earlier this season. O'Day has some value for 2019, but there is no timetable for his return. He may go un-drafted in most year-to-year leagues next year. Zimmermann is a dart throw at this point.
Player focus
Baltimore Orioles
international bonus pool money in 2018-19
