Atlanta Braves Trade Rumors: 5 Deadline Suitors for Derek Lowe's Big-Game Rep

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One of the many names being tossed around in trade rumors is Atlanta Braves pitcher Derek Lowe.

Lowe has a reputation of being a big-game pitcher, especially after going 5-0 last September while leading the Braves to their first playoff berth since 2005.

Although the Braves are in the playoff hunt again, they have plenty of pitching and a dearth of hitting. Even though it’s unlikely Lowe gets traded, there’s always that possibility.

Plenty of teams have expressed interest in Lowe, and there are several trade rumors abound.  As we’ve seen before, where there’s smoke, there’s fire.

Here are five teams that could nab Lowe at the trade deadline.

5. Pittsburgh Pirates

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After defeating Derek Lowe Thursday night, the Pirates would be an interesting team to grab him.

Lowe would step in and become the veteran of the pitching staff, while also giving the Pirates postseason experience.

After collecting prospects for years, the Pirates could ship a couple back to Atlanta, who could then trade prospects for a hitter they desperately need.

4. Los Angeles Angels

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The Angels and Braves aren’t strangers to making deadline deals, as the Braves traded the Halos' Mark Teixeira in 2008.

Lowe would join up with Jered Weaver and Dan Haren to form quite a pitching trio. That trio could help the Angels eventually catch the Rangers.

3. Arizona Diamondbacks

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The Diamondbacks have been a good story out West, but they still need to add another pitcher if they hope to catch the Giants.

Lowe would instantly become their best big-game pitcher and could help the D’Backs make a playoff push.

2. New York Yankees

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Never rule the Yankees out of any deal.

The Bronx Bombers would love another big-time pitcher to pair with CC Sabathia for the playoffs.

The Yankees have the money to pay Lowe’s big contract and could offer the Braves either prospects or even possibly Brett Gardner.

1. Detroit Tigers

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The Tigers have been the team most interested in Lowe.

A Michigan native, Lowe could help a Tigers pitching staff that is in need of one more big arm.

Detroit could ship back prospects to the Braves, who could in turn trade them for a bat.