Braves Trade Former Top Pick Kolby Allard to Rangers for Reliever Chris Martin
By Scott Rogust
The Atlanta Braves acquired some bullpen depth at the expense of a former top pick.
According to MLB insider Ken Rosenthal, the Braves have traded Kolby Allard to the Texas Rangers in exchange for relief pitcher Chris Martin.
Source: #Braves acquire Chris Martin from #Rangers for Kolby Allard.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 31, 2019
Allard was the 14th overall pick in the 2015 MLB Draft and didn't see action in the majors until the 2018 season. During that three-game stint, Allard posted a 12.38 ERA while striking out three batters and walking four.
The Braves No. 10 overall prospect spent this season with Triple-A Gwinnettt, where he recorded a 4.17 ERA with 98 strikeouts and 36 walks in 110 innings of work.
With the Braves contending for a playoff berth, they decided to bring in a veteran reliever in Martin. After having his contractual rights sold to the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters by the New York Yankees, Martin returned to Major League Baseball in 2018 by signing with the Rangers.
Chris Martin will be a rental for the #Braves, but monster numbers since April 29: 35 Ks, 2 BB in 27 2/3 IP, 2.60 ERA. Has closed at times.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 31, 2019
But this season, Martin has been special. In 38 games, he's posted a 3.08 ERA while owning the best strikeout/walk ratio with 43 Ks and just four walks.
With the Washington Nationals and Philadelphia Phillies nipping at their heels, the Braves decided to bolster up their bullpen, as they continue to push for their second consecutive NL East title.