Braves Trade Rumors: Padres and Braves have discussed trade for Matt Kemp (Updated)

Earlier today, the Braves search for offense, in particular out of the catcher’s position, led to rumors that they were interested in a possible reunion with Brian McCann as discussions with the Yankees, at least the introductory ones, took place.

As it turns out, other teams are looking to unload potentially talented players owed a bunch of money, including the San Diego Padres. They have contacted the Braves about a deal that would send Matt Kemp to the Braves.

The money left on Kemp’s contract is certainly prohibitive despite the fact that he has provided a fair bit of offense this year (although his 0.2 WAR according to Baseball Reference and 0.4 WAR according to Fangraphs leaves something to be desired). Defensively challenged in right field in recent years, he could be destined for left field which could mitigate some of that.

No word on what the Padres are asking for in return, but their willingness to throw money in to deals implies a certain level of motivation to shed themselves of his contract.

Kemp has slashed .262/.285/.489 this season with 23 homers and 69 RBIs in 2016 and if get can find a way to fix his woeful OBP during the rest of the season could put together a fine offensive season.

**UPDATE**

It appears as though there is more to this than simply preliminary discussions. Seems like a swap of bad contracts with Hector Olivera going to the Padres could be in the works.