Several weeks after rejecting a trade to the Angels, Derrek Lee accepted the deal that will send him to the Atlanta Braves.  When Lee turned down the offer to go West we speculated, “Certainly he considered moving to L.A., but the Angels are 8.5 games back compared to 10.5 games for the Cubbies.  Perhaps, he would have accepted a trade to a “better contender?”

It looks like we may have been right.

Lee lands in Atlanta and will take over everyday duties at first base while Troy Glaus will be put on the D.L. (Glaus will likely take over third base upon his return).  It makes complete sense for the Braves after losing Chipper Jones for the year and it makes complete sense for Lee.  The Cubs were dead in the water and, at age 34, Lee has been having one of his worst seasons.  This gives him a shot at the playoffs along with the possibility of becoming rejuvenated for the stretch drive.

We’re not expecting a complete 180-degree turnaround from Lee, but at least he’s in a better situation.