Braves trade Jorge Soler to Angels and eye pitcher Yusei Kikuchi

The Atlanta Braves have traded Jorge Soler to the Los Angeles Angels, saving $16 million. This move is part of their strategy to improve the team after a disappointing 2024 season. With the money saved, the Braves are considering signing pitcher Yusei Kikuchi, who is projected to receive a one-year deal worth about $14.8 million. Kikuchi performed well after being traded to the Houston Astros, posting a 2.70 ERA in ten starts. Soler, who was instrumental in the Braves' 2021 World Series win, struggled defensively. The Braves aim to use the savings from his contract to strengthen their pitching rotation for the upcoming season.