Thu, Jul 20, 2006 at 12:00am

BRAVES LAND CLOSER WICKMAN

The Atlanta Braves acquired pitcher Bob Wickman from the Cleveland Indians for minor-league catcher Max Ramirez.

What does it give the Atlanta Braves
Finally, the Braves have themselves a proven closer in Wickman. No longer will they have to go with the likes of Ken Ray and Chris Reitsma, as Wickman comes to Atlanta with 229 career saves. Though he doesn't have the overpowering stuff many closers do, he uses location, movement and grit to his advantage.

What does it give the Cleveland Guardians
This is a head-scratcher on the Cleveland side of the deal. They already have Victor Martinez as the best-hitting catcher in the game, and he's still relatively young. Then there's backup Kelly Shoppach, who's got a very promising bat. Now they bring in Ramirez, another good-hitting young catcher. But they do still have a few years to decide what to do with the newcomer, considering he's only 21 and in the low minors.

Fantasy impact

Player focus

Cleveland Guardians

Max Ramirez 1B

Atlanta Braves

Bob Wickman P