Thaindian News

By Madhuri Dey
Aug 1, (THAINDIAN NEWS) On Saturday the Atlanta Braves and Kansas City Royals went for a five-player deal under which the former acquired outfielder Rick Ankiel and right-hander Kyle Farnsworth while the latter was traded prospects Gregor Blanco, Jesse Chavez and Tim Collins in return. The move will surely help to strengthen the outfield position of Atlanta Braves as Rick Ankiel has come up with some good performances after his return from injury.

31-year-old outfielder Rick Ankiel will no doubt add depth to the team’s center field. He would be seen playing a crucial part in the team as Nate McLouth has been demoted to the minor just four days ago with an average of .168. On the part of Rick Ankiel, who was signed by the Kansas City Royals for a one-year, $3.25 million deal, has been able to maintain an average of 0.261 during his 27 games tenure with the team. He also has to his credit 15 RBIs and four home runs. However, he lost much of playing time after he suffered a thigh injury. In the Atlanta Braves, Rick Ankiel will join rookie Jason Heyward, Eric Hinske and Melky Canbrera. At present, Atlanta Braves have Jason Heyward in the right, Eric Hinske in left and Melky Canbrera at the center field.

On Saturday the manager of the Atlanta Braves, Bobby Cox said that Rick Ankiel has been traded into the team as he has come up with some good play after his return. The Atlanta Braves are now looking forward to Rick Ankiel’s joining the team on Sunday during its game against Cincinnati Reds. On the part the Kansas City Royals, the team is happy with the inclusion of three young players and said that it complies with their strategy.