ESPN'S J.P. RICCIARDI REACTION TO THE YUNEL ESCOBAR TRADE

So not only did the Braves get rid of a clubhouse cancer in Yunel Escobar who has not hit all season and replaced him with a guy in Alex Gonzalez who has more home runs and extra base hits then anybody in the Braves lineup but also they pick up two good prospects who could be factors in the future. Seriously, what is not to like about this trade?

Frank Wren pulled a great trade today that could wind up like the Edgar Renteria trade to the Detroit Tigers for Jair Jurrjens and Gorkys Hernandez (who was later flipped for Nate McLouth). Not only is Gonzalez an instant upgrade in the offensive production categories but it sounds like relief pitcher Tim Collins could be a future Billy Wagner and shortstop Tyler Pastornicky has a chance of eventually replacing Gonzalez in the future.

And before some of you Braves fans jump on me about how Yunel Escobar was too young to get rid of and could eventually right the ship please remember the Braves ran out of patience with Frenchy last season and it hasn't hurt them yet. The Braves signed Dominican shortstop Edward Salcedo this offseason and fully expect the 18 year old will eventually be replacing Gonzalez in 2-3 years. Gonzalez has an option for next year of around $2 million that can be picked up by the club and then depending on Salcedo's production in the minors could be the Braves starting shortstop in 2012.

The Braves won in this trade. They want desperately to send Bobby Cox into retirement with a World Series ring and didn't have to mortgage any of their future.

Great job Wren.