Braves Update

Atlanta is about as middle-of-the-road as a team can be. The Braves are stuck in the middle of the National League in ERA and batting average and head to Camden Yards with a 29-30 record after losing their past two at home to the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Braves have shuffled things a little in an attempt to spark the club. Top pitching prospect Tommy Hanson, who throws a 97 mph fastball, was promoted last week and will make his second big league start today against the Orioles. Former Orioles general manager Frank Wren traded three prospects to Pittsburgh recently for outfielder and leadoff hitter Nate McLouth. At least there is one component of the old Braves still intact: Third baseman Chipper Jones is having another outstanding season, batting .320 with eight homers and 31 RBIs.