:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46818868/usa-today-8705913.0.jpg)
Braves News:
Trade rumors part one: Julio Teheran
With just one week until the trade deadline comes and goes, the rumors are starting to fly fast. What's clear early on is that pitching seems to be dominating the trade market, so it's only natural that the Braves, who are teetering on the edge of contention, may be willing to part ways with a pitcher if the deal is right. Enter Julio Teheran. Ken Rosenthal reported that the Braves would be willing to move Teheran, while another source added that the Braves wouldn't part ways with him. Looks like we'll have to wait until the deadline passes to see which side was right.
Trade rumors part two: Nick Markakis
Nick Markakis, who's established himself as one of the better singles hitters around, has reportedly received trade interest from other teams. The Braves however have made it clear that the 31-year-old is not going anywhere. Our Scott Coleman gave his take on the situation:
The Braves would gain nothing by suggesting Markakis is available for trade, so the quick denial isn't really a surprise. Signing a respected veteran like Markakis and then kicking him out of town eight months later would not be a good look for the front office. There are long-term implications that come with that.
Braves tickets among cheapest in the league
Good news, Braves fans! If you want to catch a Braves game this summer, you'll be paying less than most. According to Team Marketing Report, tickets at Turner Field are the third-cheapest in the league. A non-premium season ticket price average is $19.14, just behind the Arizona Diamondbacks and the San Diego Padres.
MLB News:
Clayton Kershaw embarrassed the Mets
Nine innings pitched, three hits, 11 strikeouts and no runs. For most, that's an outstanding performance. For Clayton Kershaw, the's just another day at the office. The defending National League Cy Young winner and MVP came out in force against the New York Mets tonight, spinning a perfect game through seven innings. His season ERA dropped to 2.51, solidifying he and Zack Greinke as the best one-two punch in the league.
Houston Astros acquire Scott Kazmir
The upstart Houston Astros made an effort to solidify their post-season chances today in acquire front-end starter Scott Kazmir from the division rival Oakland Athletics. The left-hander posted a 2.38 ERA in 18 starts for Oakland. He'll join American League All-Star starter Dallas Kuechel at the top of Houston's rotation.
Aramis Ramirez makes return to Pittsburgh
12 years to the day after sending the 37-year-old third baseman to the Chicago Cubs, the Pittsburgh Pirates re-acquired Aramis Ramirez from the Milwaukee Brewers. The three-time All-Star is batting just .247/.295/.430, but his 11 home runs and 42 RBI would help a Pittsburgh team looking to make a run in the competitive NL Central.