AYBAR, FONTAINE FOR RIDGWAY
The Tampa Bay Rays acquired infielders Willy Aybar and Chase Fontaine from the Atlanta Braves for pitcher Jeff Ridgway.
What does it give the Tampa Bay Rays
Aybar can play three infield positions and hits from both sides of the plate, so he could serve as Tampa Bay's utility infielder in 2008. Or, if rookie third baseman Evan Longoria struggles out of the gate, Aybar may get another chance at a starting job. As for Fontaine, he's a young shortstop prospect whose path is now blocked by Jason Bartlett, Ben Zobrist and Reid Brignac.
What does it give the Atlanta Braves
Ridgway is a situational lefty who has battled injuries in his career. That said, he stands a very good shot at earning a roster spot with the Braves during spring training. It's curious that Atlanta dealt away two more infielders in this trade, especially after dealing veteran shortstop Edgar Renteria to Detroit. However, Brent Lillibridge--acquired from Pittsburgh last year--is now the favorite to win a utility role in Atlanta.
Fantasy impact
