MARINERS LAND STARTER FOR RELIEVER
The Seattle Mariners acquired pitcher Horacio Ramirez from the Atlanta Braves for pitcher Rafael Soriano.
What does it give the Seattle Mariners
Having gone through 2006 with a lackluster 4.88 ERA from their starters, ninth in the AL, the Mariners needed to improve their rotation. While Ramirez definitely gives them an upgrade, it's only a slight one. The 27-year-old lefty spent more than half of 2006 on the DL with finger and hamstring injuries and has a history of injury problems. But when he's healthy he can be a steady No. 3 or 4 starter. And his addition gives the M's a decidedly left-handed slant if young Jake Woods joins Jarrod Washburn and Ramirez in the rotation.
What does it give the Atlanta Braves
One of the best young setup men in the game heads to Atlanta in this deal. Turning 27 later this month, Soriano, like Ramirez, has had his injury troubles. But in 2006 he had his first full, healthy season since 2003 and enjoyed a terrific year thanks to his blazing heat and strong change-up. Soriano gives the Braves a quality setup man for closer Bob Wickman, and Soriano himself could close if Wickman's age catches up to him.
Fantasy impact
