Report: Atlanta Braves attempt to include Evan Gattis in B.J. Upton trade

The Atlanta Braves have a salary problem and his name is B.J. Upton. To be frank, I have been a (relative) supporter of Upton through his struggles over the past two seasons, but at the same time, he is wildly overpaid by an organization that seemingly has a “cap” on player spending. With that on the table, a report has surfaced from Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports that references the Braves and a willingness to package Evan Gattis in an effort to rid the club of Upton’s troublesome contract.

The now 30-year-old Upton had a somewhat improved season in 2014, posting a slash line of .208/.287/.333 with 12 home runs and 20 stolen bases, but his production at the plate has submarined the first two seasons of a 5-year, $75 million contract. Unlike the Dan Uggla situation, B.J. Upton does present some value in other ways (i.e. with his legs and with capable defense at a premium position), but it is no secret that the club would love some additional flexibility by dealing him away prior tot the 2015 season.

Because there has already been some discussion of the potential to trade Evan Gattis, this report should not come as a total surprise. However, packaging the two together is a relatively new concept, and it would likely erase any significant return for Gattis while theoretically providing a semi-realistic scenario for getting Upton off the books.

Specifics are unknown at this time, but what do you think of this notion? Let us know in the comments below!