Braves Trade Power-Hitting Outfielder for Young Right-Hander

The Los Angeles Angels have acquired outfielder Jorge Soler from the Atlanta Braves in exchange for right-hander Griffin Canning, Francys Romero of BeisbolFR.com reports.

There’s no money changing hands, so the Angels will be responsible for the $32 million Soler is owed over the next two seasons. Soler, 32, hit .241/.338/.442 with 21 home runs over 142 games between the San Francisco Giants and the Braves in 2024.

Canning, 28, made 31 starts for the Angels this past season and posted six wins, a 5.31 ERA, 130 strikeouts and a 1.40 WHIP in 171 2/3 innings.

Braves Send Jorge Soler to Angels for Rotation Boost

Soler emerged as an obvious candidate for trade this offseason, particularly due to his defensive limitations, which have raised concerns among teams. The presence of Marcell Ozuna, who serves as the designated hitter for the Atlanta Braves, further complicated Soler’s value within the organization. The Braves initially acquired Soler during the trade deadline to address the needs of an injury-stricken lineup, capitalizing on his offensive potential.

As the offseason begins, the Angels have made it clear that they are eager to strengthen their roster to be competitive in the 2025 season. Bringing in a player like Soler would represent a significant move in that direction, providing a powerful bat that could enhance their offensive capabilities while positioning them for a more successful future.

The Braves’ trade of Soler to the Angels for Canning signals a shift in Atlanta’s roster construction. Soler, a 2019 48-home run hitter and 2021 World Series MVP, departs after an 11-year MLB career marked by 191 home runs and 197 doubles. Canning, boasting a 92 ERA+ over five seasons, brings stability to the Braves’ rotation. With 94 of his 99 appearances as starts, he’ll likely slot into the middle of Atlanta’s rotation.

This trade also clears significant salary space for the Braves, potentially paving the way for offseason moves. Will Atlanta use this flexibility to pursue free agents or extend core players? The answer will shape the team’s 2025 outlook.

For the Angels, acquiring Soler addresses their need for power in the lineup. His presence could impact the team’s offseason strategy, potentially influencing decisions on other roster additions.

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