Where Nate McLouth Fits in the New-Look Atlanta Braves Lineup

Yesterday the Atlanta Braves acquired All Star and Gold Glove center fielder Nate McLouth from the ever-floundering Pirates.

McLouth is a 20/20 hitter with good speed, power, and doesn't strike out often (29:21 K:BB ratio this year).  He's likely to bat leadoff in Atlanta.

As another everyday lefty in the Braves lineup, it's hard to justify batting McLouth fifth.  After Chipper, McCann, McClouth, Anderson, and Kotchman would follow—that's four straight lefties. With Kelly Johnson continuing to struggle somewhat atop the order, McLouth sliding in at leadoff is a natural fit.

He hit leadoff for the majority of last season, before the Pirates traded Jason Bay and Xavier Nady. McLouth has been hitting third since.

By batting McLouth at the top of the order, it provides the Braves with a legitimate stolen base threat for the first time since Rafael Furcal was in town. McLouth has the majors' best stolen base percentage since 2005, and is a perfect 7-for-7 this season.  He's been caught only five times in his career.

Though the Braves do not generally steal bases, McLouth's ability to do so effectively may influence Bobby Cox to make the call more often. Yunel Escobar, Jones and McCann have been red-hot and, with McLouth running in front of them, should have more chances to drive in runs. 

Which means the Braves should score more runs.

The Braves filled more than one hole with this trade, and may have made the move that could change their season.