Paul Janish will look to help Atlanta's depleted infield.
The Atlanta Braves have acquired shortstop Paul Janish from the Cincinnati Reds with hopes that Janish can help Atlanta’s now depleted infield. The Braves lost two shortstops, in two games to injury. First it was Andrelton Simmons, who fractured his finger on the base paths, while trying to catch the defense sleeping by taking second base. Then it was Jack Wilson, chasing down the ball, dislocating his finger. Manager Fredi Gonzalez had to utilize his emergency shortstop, versatile Martin Prado, who actually looked more comfortable than expected. Tyler Pastornicky, who started the year at shortstop with the big club, was called up to back up Prado for Saturday’s game against the Mets. Pastornicky’s pinch-hit failed bunt attempt on Saturday proved that the Braves made the right decision when pulling the trigger on Janish. The Reds received career minor league pitcher Todd Redman in return, who went 6-6 in 18 starts with Triple-A Gwinnett, posting a 3.58 ERA.
Janish, was acquired for his solid defense, not so much for his bat. Janish’s .221 career average proves this is just a temporary fix until the rookie phenom Simmons comes off the disabled list. Simmons is expected to be out 4-6 weeks. Janish and Wilson will likely split time in Simmons’ absence.
The Braves might be on the verge of making a splash before the deadline, but Sunday’s starter Ben Sheets may determine whether or not the Braves decide to make a move to sure up their pitching staff. If Sheets, who hasn’t pitched in a major league game in almost two years, proves to be the Sheets of old, the Braves might set their sites on other areas of need. Justin Upton has been rumored to land in Atlanta, and would fit nicely, eventually taking over center field next year. I don’t see this move going through. It would take a package of Martin Prado and some untouchable prospects such as Julio Teheren.
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