The Braves have sent AAA RHP Cody Martin to the Oakland A’s in exchange for the #53 international bonus pool spot. The Braves are seeking more money to sign international free agents without penalty. Atlanta is seeking more money to spend on International Free Agents, which could mean more players like Martin are moved this week in exchange for bonus pool slots. In his short MLB career, which included bullpen work, he has a career 5.40 ERA. Cody Martin’s trade must have been relief to the Braves organization; Martin declared for the Rule 5 Draft last year, and was not selected. They got value out of a guy declared for the Rule 5 draft and was stuck at the back of the pack in an organization that has a lot of pitching depth. Martin has talent, but the Braves are banking on high upside arms. Many fear that Martin is a AAAA guy, great in the minors but just unable to translate it to the bigs. Martin has a future in the MLB, but it’s not with the Braves. He got off to a great start this season, and he can contribute to the A’s bullpen or rotation at some point. We wish him the best in his future endeavors.
Martin was ranked #20 on SportsTalkATL.com’s Top 25 Braves Prospects for the month of July.