In exchange for Wickman, the Indians get Class A catcher Max Ramirez.
The acquisition of Wickman is expected to give the Braves the dependable veteran closer they’ve lacked throughout this season. In 29 appearances for the Indians this year, the 37-year-old right-hander has converted 15 of 18 save opportunities and compiled a 4.18 ERA.
With his recent success, Wickman is looking more like he did last year, when he tied for the American League high with 45 saves and limited opponents to a .094 batting average with runners in scoring position. Most of Wickman’s struggles this year have come against left-handed batters, who are hitting .308 against him. Right-handed hitters are batting just .236.
Ramirez was hitting .285 with nine homers and 37 RBIs at Class A Rome this year. The 21-year-old catcher established himself as a solid prospect while hitting .347 at Danville last season. His success at the rookie level led him to be named the Appalachian League’s co-player of the year.
Although Ramirez is a solid prospect, the Braves are well stocked at the catcher’s position. All-Star catcher Brian McCann is just 22, and he should be in Atlanta for many years to come. Jarrod Saltalamacchia has struggled at Double-A Mississippi this year, but he’s still considered one of the game’s top catching prospects.
Tags: bob wickman