Atlanta Braves Rumors: Trade for Corey Hart Would Complete Revamped Outfield

Despite signing B.J. Upton, the Atlanta Braves could be looking for another outfield to complete their offseason haul.

The Milwaukee Brewers' Corey Hart might just be that last piece of the puzzle, as Danny Knobler of CBS Sports tweets that Hart is available.

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Brewers have considered trading Corey Hart to free up money for pitching search. Without some type of move, can't play on bigger pitchers.

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"— DKnobler (@DKnobler) December 5, 2012"

The Braves still have a hole in the outfield, and Hart could fill it admirably. Hart is a solid hitter capable of hitting for power and for contact. He has averaged around 64 extra-base hits per year over the past three years, including an average of 29 home runs over that span.

This power, combined with a career .276 average and .824 OPS, shows that Hart has plenty of talent behind the plate.

The Braves could use some extra right-handed pop in their lineup, something that Hart provides in excess.

However, there are a few hangups that could keep this trade from happening.

First, Hart will hit free agency after this season. A .276 career hitter averaging over 25 home runs will be sure to sign a massive contract when he hits free agency, meaning the Braves would probably just get Hart for just one year, if they get him at all.

That could take some real persuading, as well. Hart has no incentive to move unless his contract is renegotiated, something that would be very expensive for the Braves. More likely than not, Hart would rather stay in Milwaukee or make big money on the market, as evidenced by the limited no-trade clause in his contract.

With these snags, Hart will be a tough get for the Braves, but he is still worth a look for his talented bat. There's no question that Hart would give the Braves a big boost in their lineup. Now they just have to decide if he's worth the cost.