[alfus21]

Tex is a free agent after this season. The Braves wouldn't have been able to afford him after this year anyways.

After this season he would have left for somewhere for more money and the Braves would have been left with nothing.

So why not trade him now since this season is essentially over, and get two players in return who have years left on their contracts? Instead of simply finishing the season with Tex and saying bye to him for no reason.

Casey Kotchman will be a good fit in the NL. Good move by both teams.