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MIAMI (AP) — The Miami Marlins acquired Jeff Francoeur from the Atlanta Braves in a three-team trade Wednesday night, hoping the well-traveled outfielder can provide a boost toward a playoff spot.
Francoeur was the only major leaguer included in the deal that also involved Texas. Any big league player traded after Aug. 1 had to first be put on waivers.
As part of the trade, the Braves will send Marlins $104,959 to help offset Francoeur's contract.
Francoeur hugged his Atlanta teammates and coaches goodbye in the visiting dugout early in Wednesday's game at Arizona.
"It's hard. He's a great kid. He's one of the finest human beings I've ever been around," Braves interim manager Brian Snitker said. "We'll miss him. He's going to play meaningful games, good for him."
Atlanta got minor league shortstop Dylan Moore from Texas and catcher Matt Foley from Miami and the Rangers obtained two international signing slots from Miami and one from Texas.
Miami is contending for an NL wild-card spot and isn't sure whether star outfielder Giancarlo Stanton will return this season from a severe groin strain.
Francoeur hit .249 with seven home runs and 33 RBIs in 99 games for the Braves. The 32-year-old plays both left field and right field and is known for a strong arm.
The Marlins will be Francoeur's eighth team in the majors. Besides Atlanta, he has played for Kansas City, the New York Mets, San Francisco, Philadelphia, Texas and San Diego.
"He's been great for our young kids and has been great on the field as well," said Braves assistant general manager Billy Ryan. "Unfortunately, the circumstances of where we are as an organization, the Marlins are in contention, they're going for it, so it was an opportunity for him to get some meaningful at-bats and hopefully get in the postseason."
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AP freelancer Jose M. Romero contributed to this report from Phoenix.
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