The Atlanta Braves have traded Philip Gosselin to the Arizona Diamondbacks for Bronson Arroyo and Touki Toussaint, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports.
Toussaint, who turned 19 today, is the definitely the prize in the trade. The right hander is still a few years away from the majors and has posted a 3.69 ERA over 39 innings for the Single-A Kane County. The move appears to be more about getting rid of Arroyo’s salary for the D-backs, who is owed $9.5 million with a $4.5 million buyout. The 38-year-old is recovering from Tommy John Surgery and could return after All-Star Break or early August. He has a career record of 145-131 with an ERA of 4.19 in 15 years.
Gosselin, 26, was having a great season both at the plate and defensively. The utility player was hitting a slash of .325/.357/.425 in 42 plate appearances. He was mostly likely at his highest trade value with his recent success. Gosselin injured his thumb on May 17 while diving for a ball. He should return by All-Star Break.
This is a surprising move by the Diamondbacks and at first glance looks like a win for the Braves if Toussaint plays up to his potential.
