'STROS GET SLUGGER GATTIS IN 5-PLAYER DEAL
The Houston Astros acquired catcher Evan Gattis and pitcher James Hoyt from the Atlanta Braves for pitchers Michael Foltynewicz and Andrew Thurman, plus infielder Rio Ruiz.
What does it give the Houston Astros
Houston now boasts three capable big-league catchers in Gattis, {P Jason Castro} and {P Hank Conger}, plus prospect {P Max Stassi}. However, Gattis is expected to serve as the team's regular designated hitter (with {P Chris Carter playing mostly first base in 2015). At least, that's the plan going into spring training. As for Hoyt, he's a 28-year-old reliever with modest upside. That said, he should compete for a roster spot in spring training. The Astros gave up a lot in this deal.
What does it give the Atlanta Braves
Big-armed Foltynewicz is a nice addition to the rebuilding Braves. He has pitched both as a starter and reliever within the Houston organization, but early indications are he will be used as a starter with Atlanta. In fact, he's a candidate to earn the fifth starter role in spring training. While he has good upside, third baseman Ruiz might be the key to this deal. A talented lefty bat, Ruiz should already be considered Atlanta's future at the hot corner. Thurman is another arm with good upside.
Fantasy impact
The arrival of Gattis could signal more moves for the Astros, as Castro seems somewhat expendable. Conger loses fantasy value as long as both Castro and Gattis are in Houston, while young slugging first baseman {P Jon Singleton} also loses out here if Carter plays regularly at first base. Meanwhile, Gattis should enjoy Minute Maid Park in Houston, so his value skyrockets if he becomes a regular DH with catcher eligibility in most leagues. Foltynewicz and Ruiz should also see a spike in their long-range fantasy value, and the former could see plenty of big-league action in '15 as well. Thurman should now be on the keeper radar, while Hoyt is a limited fantasy pitcher.
