BRAVES BRING BACK SOLER IN 4-PLAYER DEAL
The Atlanta Braves acquired designated hitter/outfielder Jorge Soler and pitcher Luke Jackson from the San Francisco Giants for pitcher Tyler Matzek and infielder Sabin Ceballos.
What does it give the Atlanta Braves
Atlanta has dealt with injuries to key players all season. This trade allows them to restock without giving up much. Soler headlines the deal, returning to Atlanta after helping them win the 2021 World Series. That said, he is in year 1 of a three-year contract, and he took a big step back this season. Soler was also the DH in San Francisco, and is defensively limited in the outfield. Similarly, Jackson rejoins the Braves bullpen after several seasons away in San Fran. He should provide middle relief depth and will look to bounce back this season.
What does it give the San Francisco Giants
For the Giants, this trade is all about getting out of Soler's contract after a poor first impression. They take on Matzek's contract in return. The 33-year-old reliever is on the injured list after experiencing elbow inflammation shortly after returning from Tommy John surgery earlier this season. It is certainly possible that he never pitches for the Giants. Meanwhile, Ceballos is an infield prospect drafted by the Braves in 2023. He is noted for his contact-hitting ability, but there is not a lot of power or speed to his game. He will continue his development in San Francisco's organization.
Fantasy impact
Soler struggled to hit home runs, especially at Oracle Park, so he should benefit from the reunion in Atlanta. But it remains unclear how he will fit in their everyday lineup. His fantasy value takes a hit from that uncertainty, at least initially. Still, fantasy leaguers may regret missing out if Soler heats up. He is the only fantasy-relevant player involved in this deal at this time.
