Baseball News from L.A. Times

The right-hander, who won 14 games last year and averaged more than 200 innings in four seasons in L.A., is reportedly close to signing a $60 million deal with Atlanta.  The Atlanta Braves worked to bolster their rotation, closing in today on a $60 million, four-year deal with Derek Lowe, according to a person familiar with the negotiations. Continue reading on L.A. Times

Fresh off allowing 18-yr veteran pitcher John Smoltz to sign w/ the Boston Red Sox, the Atlanta Braves announced that they have reached a deal w/ former Red Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers ace, Derek Lowe.

Smoltz, one of the original pitchers during Atlanta’s dominence over the past 2 decades, is the last to go from the Braves, after both Greg Maddux and Tom Glavine left in previous years.  Despite being converted to a closer and then back to a starter, Smoltz excelled as a Brave, so I am sad to see him go.

Derek Lowe brings a winning attitude and playoff experience to the Braves, who are desperately trying to get into the playoffs and advance.  With the New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies (WS champs) taking over the NL East over the past few seasons, the Braves must look at new faces, like Lowe, if they have any chance of getting back on top in the division.  The bullpen is still beat up and not that great, but Lowe will help add stability and a positive outlook.

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