Winter Meetings rumor roundup: Braves discussing Gattis, Upton with Rangers

The Braves were pretty busy on Monday as the 2014 Winter Meetings kicked off. The club reportedly signed Cuban outfielder Dian Toscano to a deal, though we still don't have official confirmation from the team or the salary numbers.

Here's a roundup of Braves rumors from Monday:

Braves, Rangers discussing Gattis, Upton?

We knew the Rangers had interest in Justin Upton in the past, but the Dallas-Morning News reported today the clubs have also discussed Evan Gattis. A clip from their story:

According to major league sources, Braves officials gathered Monday for a hastily-arranged strategy session to scour the Rangers farm system. The clubs were scheduled to talk later Monday.

For the Rangers, Gattis makes more sense than Upton. Gattis is controllable for four more seasons and not arbitration eligible until after the 2015 season. Gattis would give the Rangers a right-handed power bat who could play the outfield and also occasionally catch.

The Rangers have a deep farm system, so we'll see what more comes out of this.

Justin Upton remains a popular man

The Orioles, Rangers and Padres are continuing to show interest in Justin Upton. #Braves

— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) December 8, 2014

Another option for #Padres is JUpton. Only one year of control, but SD could make him qualifying offer after season and get draft pick.

— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 8, 2014

Hearing that if Mariners don't get Melky, they could circle back to JUp, but not likely to give up top young pitcher for 1-yr rental.

— David O'Brien (@DOBrienAJC) December 8, 2014

Asking price for Gattis is really high

The Braves know Evan Gattis is a valuable piece, especially to an American League team where he could be a DH.

When the Royals showed interest in Evan Gattis a few weeks ago, the #Braves asked for Yordano Ventura. KC will likely not deal Ventura.

— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) December 8, 2014

There's nothing wrong with asking, I suppose. Next call should probably be to Anaheim about Mike Trout's availability.

Again, it should be noted, #Braves are not looking to trade Gattis. A team would have to blow their doors off with an offer to consider it.

— David O'Brien (@DOBrienAJC) December 9, 2014

Pastornicky, Varvaro among lesser pieces that could be moved

The Braves aren't just shopping their sluggers. Tyler Pastornicky and Anthony Varvaro are among a handful of players the club is open to moving this winter, reports Mark Bowman.

Braves packing Upton with Chris Johnson?

I'm about 99.99% sure Nightengale means Chris Johnson and not The Beloved Kelly Johnson, and this is certainly interesting. The Braves would have a ton of money to spend.

The #Braves now are packaging OF Justin Upton and 3B Kelly Johnson in trade talks with teams.

— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) December 9, 2014

Did we miss anything from San Diego? Be sure to post it in the comments.