Braves and Angels Announce Two-Player Trade
Atlanta acquires right-handed pitcher Jordan Walden from the Angels
The Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim announced today that the two clubs have completed a two-player trade. The Braves have acquired right-handed pitcher Jordan Walden from the Angels in exchange for right-handed pitcher Tommy Hanson.
Walden, 25, has appeared in 123 major league games over parts of three seasons with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim and owns a career record of 8-8 with 3.06 ERA with 34 saves while compiling 138 strikeouts over 114.2 innings pitched. According to FanGraphs, the 2011 All-Star ranks third among major league relief pitchers in average fastball velocity (97.2 mph) since 2010 (minimum 100.0 IP). Originally drafted by the Angels in the 12th round of the 2006 June free agent draft out of Grayson County (TX) College, Walden was twice rated as a top three prospect in the Angels organization (#3 in 2008, #2 in 2009) according to Baseball America.The Texas native has appeared in 102 games (55 starts) over five minor league seasons and owns a career minor league record 12-16 with a 3.41 ERA and eight saves.
“We want to thank Tommy for his contributions to our organization.” Braves Executive Vice President and General Manager Frank Wren said. “We were looking to add another power arm to our bullpen and Jordan brings a power arm with well above average stuff.”
Hanson, 26, owns a career record of 45-32 with a 3.61 ERA over four major league seasons. Hanson was drafted by the Braves in the 22nd round of the 2005 June free agent draft.
In addition to today’s trade with the Angels, the Braves have also claimed right-handed pitcher David Carpenter off waivers from the Boston Red Sox. Carpenter went a combined 0-2 with an 8.07 ERA in 33 appearances with the Houston Astros and Toronto Blue Jays last season. The former minor league catcher converted to pitcher during the 2008 season.