Sun, Apr 29, 2007 at 12:00am

LANGERHANS TO OAKLAND

The Oakland Athletics acquired outfielder Ryan Langerhans from the Atlanta Braves for future considerations.

What does it give the Oakland Athletics
The A's have been hit hard by injuries in the outfield this season, so adding more depth in the form of Langerhans makes sense. He's an excellent glove man with a questionable stick that can play all three outfield positions. When the likes of Nick Swisher, Milton Bradley and Mark Kotsay all return to the lineup, Langerhans will likely serve as a fourth or fifth outfielder for Oakland--which is his best role.

What does it give the Atlanta Braves
The Braves stuck with Langerhans as the lefty half of their left-field platoon for a good chunk of last year--and the early going this season. However, he just wasn't hitting enough to justify the playing time. Therefore, they'll take the moderate return from Oakland and give more playing time to the likes of Matt Diaz, Craig Wilson and recent call-up Willie Harris. Scott Thorman should also see an increase in playing time at first base with Wilson in the outfield more often.

Fantasy impact

Player focus

Atlanta Braves

future considerations

Oakland Athletics

Ryan Langerhans OF