The Colorado Rockies have made a notable move by trading right-handed reliever Tyler Kinley to the Atlanta Braves in exchange for a prospect. This transaction, reported by MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, highlights the Rockies’ ongoing relationship with the Braves, who have frequently intersected in trades over recent seasons. Noteworthy past exchanges include the 2023 deal that sent reliever Pierce Johnson to the Braves for pitchers Tanner Gordon and Victor Vodnik.
Tyler Kinley, now 34, has spent six seasons with the Rockies, where he has garnered a 5.05 ERA over 318 appearances. Interestingly, despite a higher ERA of 5.66 this season, advanced metrics from Statcast suggest his performance may not reflect his true abilities, as he excels in limiting both exit velocity and hard hits from batters. Moreover, Kinley has shown improved performance away from Coors Field, with a 4.28 ERA compared to a troubling 7.52 at home.
In 2022, Kinley signed a three-year, $6.25 million deal with the Rockies, which included a club option for the 2026 season.
In this latest trade, the Rockies will be receiving RHP Austin Smith, a 26-year-old prospect who was a later round pick in 2021. Smith is currently competing with the Double-A Columbus Clingstones and has registered a 4.31 ERA across 29 appearances this season.
As the Rockies continue to make strategic moves and strengthen their future prospects, it remains to be seen how this trade will impact both teams. This move not only opens up room in the Rockies’ bullpen but also provides an opportunity for Kinley to perform with another competitive team in the Braves.
This trade reflects a proactive approach by both franchises to enhance their rosters, providing hope for fans eager to see their teams succeed.