Several trades have occurred in the MLB off-season, but the deal made by the Atlanta and Pittsburgh has a significant impact on fantasy baseball owners.

As a member of Pittsburgh, Mike Gonzalez was a bonafied closer who could be expected to get 30+ saves in 2007.  However, as a member of the Atlanta Braves, he is relgated to the role of a setup man, and closer of the future, as long as Bob Wickman stays healthy.

Adam Laroche could actually benefit from a move to PNC Park.  He becomes the cleanup hitter in a promisinglineup, and he could improve the outlook for Jason Bay, Xavier Nady, Freddy Sanchez, and the rest of the team.  Laroche does hurt the value of Ryan Doumit and Ronny Paulino, since Doumit will only get at-bats from the Catcher position in 2007.

Pittsburgh now has a void in the bullpen, and it will likely be a point of turmoil throughout the season,until someone can clearly claim the Closer role.  Salomon Torres and Matt Capps are the leading candidates for this job in 2007, but don't be shocked if Pittsburgh tries to convert one of their oft injured pitching prospects to become the closer if these two relievers fail.