On Monday, the Braves made what could be arguably their biggest move of the offseason in acquiring Oakland A’s catcher Sean Murphy. It is the second big trade that Atlanta has made with the A’s this calander year, as they also acquired Matt Olson from Oakland in March. Murphy is considered one of the best all-around catchers in the game, and with three years of control left before free agency, he also is one of the best values in the game from a cost perspective.

Of course, cost takes on multiple meanings when it comes to what the Braves also had to give up in their trade for Murphy. Six players from the Atlanta system, either the majors or the minors, are on their way to Milwaukee or Oakland, the most notable of which is young slugger William Contreras. A clear fan favorite and very good hitting talent, Contreras was likely a very hard piece to part with. However, that is the price of doing business, and the Braves once again showed they are willing to do what it takes to get their guy.

Braves News

• There was plenty of action to the major trade, including Ken Rosenthal breaking down how the deal came together.
• While Milwaukee did well to get Contreras, Atlanta clearly comes away with the best player and good value according to Fangraphs.
• The Braves continue to get better at the most important positions on the field in acquiring Murphy.
• Cory McCartney and Grand McCauley explain how Atlanta may now have the best catching tandem in the league after Tuesday.
• Alex Anthopoulos discusses the deal for Murphy, having to pay a high price, and what could be in place at the shortstop position.
• Scott Coleman and Brad Rowland breakdown each layer of the deal in and emergency podcast edition of the Battery Power Podcast.

MLB News

• From Oakland’s perspective, landing Kyle Muller and some other intriguing prospects is the latest installment of what is likely a lengthy rebuild for the A’s.
• Many consider the Brewers landing Contreras to be an excellent move for Milwaukee.
• Another major move from Monday was the Blue Jays adding to their starting rotation by signing veteran Chris Bassitt.
• The Astros could be targeting a deal for Daulton Varsho of the Diamondbacks.
• The Yankees seem too have ace Carlos Rodon on their radar as they prepare to make him an offer in the near future.
• Veteran catcher Christian Vazquez signed a three-year deal with the Twins.
• The Marlins have made an offer to Third Baseman Justin Turner.
• Early Monday morning, the Giants signed starter Sean Manaea to a two-year deal.