In a move that kicks off the MLB hot stove season, the Los Angeles Angels have acquired slugging outfielder Jorge Soler from the Atlanta Braves in exchange for right-handed pitcher Griffin Canning. The trade, announced Thursday, provides the Angels with a much-needed power bat in their lineup while adding pitching depth to the Braves’ rotation.
A Familiar Face Returns to Atlanta
Soler, who played a crucial role in the Braves’ 2021 World Series championship run, returns to Atlanta after a brief stint with the San Francisco Giants. The 31-year-old signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Giants last winter but was traded to the Braves just three months later.
During his time with the Braves in 2021, Soler became a fan favorite, thanks in part to his mammoth home run in Game 6 of the World Series, which remains a hallmark moment for that championship team. Last season, Soler hit .241/.338/.442 with 21 home runs and 64 RBIs across 142 games.
Angels Bolster Lineup with Power Bat
For the Angels, acquiring Soler provides a significant boost to their offense. The team finished last in the American League West with a 63-99 record last season and will look to Soler to help turn things around. He is expected to slot in as the team’s designated hitter, joining a lineup that features promising young talent such as catcher Logan O’Hoppe, shortstop Zach Neto, and first baseman Nolan Schanuel.
“We’re excited to add Jorge’s power bat to our lineup,” said a source close to the Angels’ front office. “He’s proven himself on the biggest stage and we believe he can be a difference-maker for us.”
Braves Add Pitching Depth with Canning
In return for Soler, the Braves receive right-hander Griffin Canning, a former second-round pick who debuted in 2019. The 28-year-old started 31 games for the Angels last season, posting a 5.19 ERA over 171.2 innings with 130 walks, 66 strikeouts, and 31 home runs allowed. Canning is under team control through the 2025 season.
The acquisition of Canning helps bolster the Braves’ pitching depth as they head into an offseason where two of their rotation staples, Max Fried and Charlie Morton, are set to become free agents. Moving Soler’s salary also provides the Braves with additional flexibility to target other free agents or trade acquisitions, a strategy they employed last year when they acquired Chris Sale from the Boston Red Sox.
Setting the Stage for the Offseason
As the first major trade of the offseason, the Soler-Canning deal sets the stage for what promises to be an active period of player movement. Teams have until Monday at 5 p.m. ET to exclusively negotiate with their own free agents before the quiet period ends and unrestricted free agency begins.
For the Angels and Braves, this trade represents an opportunity to address specific roster needs while also providing flexibility for future moves. As the hot stove continues to heat up, fans can expect more exciting transactions in the weeks and months ahead.
