HAND HEADED TO THE BRAVES
The Atlanta Braves acquired pitcher Brad Hand from the Colorado Rockies for pitcher Alec Barger.
What does it give the Atlanta Braves
The Braves have added another arm to their bullpen. Hand could become the second left-handed pitcher for Atlanta, joining forces with A.J. Minter. Known to be a bit wild, Hand combines high strikeouts with many walks. He has plenty of postseason experience, including last season with the Phillies. The Braves are hoping he will get to go on another long run this year.
What does it give the Colorado Rockies
Barger was a 17th-round draft pick in 2019. He has been toiling as a reliever in the minor leagues, posting a 3.29 earned-run average with five saves in 30 appearances in Double-A ball this season. The Rockies will likely provide him with more opportunities in his future than the Braves could have. That makes this a deal all parties can live with.
Fantasy impact
While getting away from Coors Field is always a positive for pitchers, Hand still does not offer much fantasy value with the Braves. He will be stuck behind too many relievers in Atlanta. As for Barger, it may still take some time for him to land in Denver.
