5 Key Stories: 8/14/16 – 8/20/16

Here’s a look back at this week’s five top stories here at MLBTR.

Middle-infield changes for the Braves. The Braves made a variety of moves this week, the most significant of which was the promotion of top shortstop prospect and former No. 1 overall draft pick Dansby Swanson from Double-A Mississippi. Swanson replaces Erick Aybar, who the Braves shipped to Detroit for Mike Aviles and a prospect. (They then designated Aviles for assignment.) They also released veteran second baseman Omar Infante.

Giancarlo Stanton to miss rest of season. The slugger is out for the year with a groin injury, a loss that could significantly impact the Marlins’ Wild Card chances. They’ve considered acquiring Carlos Gomez, who was recently released by the Astros, to replace him on their roster.

Nationals release Jonathan Papelbon. The Nats released their former closer last week rather than designating him for assignment, allowing him to hit the open market immediately. A few days later, it appeared he was close to deciding on a new team, with the veteran being connected to the Red Sox and Cubs. Now, however, it appears his timeline for signing has been pushed back.

More rookies arrive. Swanson’s promotion wasn’t the only crucial one this week. The Rockies are set to promote Jeff Hoffman, the key to last year’s Troy Tulowitzki trade. And the Yankees promoted slugger Aaron Judge along with first baseman Tyler Austin. Both players made an immediate impact, homering in their first big-league at-bats last Saturday against the Rays.

Potential changes for the Diamondbacks. The D-Backs haven’t yet made the call on contract decisions for top execs Tony La Russa, Dave Stewart and De Jon Watson, Jon Heyman reported yesterday. Manager Chip Hale could also be on the hot seat in the wake of the team’s extremely disappointing 50-72 season thus far. One Diamondback who isn’t in danger of losing his job is catcher Welington Castillo, who the team has considered extending.