Teixeira trade only the beginning for the Braves?

Mark Teixeira was removed from tonight's lineup against the Cardinals and headed to Boston to join the Angels during their series at Fenway. Casey Kotchman might find himself hitting in the heart of the Braves order Wednesday evening as one of two players headed to the Braves.

While looking back at what the Braves traded for Teixeira last year, and what they got this year—they certainly gave up a lot. However, the Braves did get what they wanted in return for a player that was most likely to leave as a free agent—a major league-ready first baseman.

Casey Kotchman is not in Teixeira's class, at least right now. He has respectable numbers of .287-12-54, but is still only 25 years old and won't be a free agent for at least three more years. First base was the one position the Braves did not have a prospect in their minor league system ready to take over either this year or next.

There were reports of a possible expanded trade with Will Ohman or Mike Gonzalez headed to the Angels as well. However, Ohman's departure is more likely as several teams are interested in acquiring the services of the lefty reliever. Unless Atlanta got blown away with a trade offer, Gonzalez should be staying put as he has been effective closing out the few save chances he's had.

Also getting attention from other teams' scouts are Brent Lillibridge and Brandon Jones, both currently at AAA Richmond. The Orioles have expressed interest, and perhaps the Pirates would be interested in re-acquiring their former prospect in a trade that would send Jones, Lillibridge and one or two low level pitchers to Pittsburgh for outfielder Jason Bay.

The trade would make sense for both teams. Bay is signed for the 2009 season and would fill the Braves' desire for a power outfield bat. Brandon Jones has decent potential as a left field bat and is major league-ready. Lillibridge would be the replacement for Jack Wilson at shortstop for the Pirates.

However, the Pirates request for additional pitchers is most likely a bit much, as they'd be getting two major league ready players for a player who has one year left on his contract. As compared to Teixeira, Jason Bay would be most likely easier for the Braves to re-sign as he doesn't have Scott Boras as his agent, and would be a much less expensive option and give the Braves more payroll flexibility.

The payroll flexibility may be key as Tim Hudson may be finished

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