Braves trade Erick Aybar to Tigers for Mike Aviles, prospect Kade Scivicque

Opening up a spot for prospect Dansby Swanson, the Atlanta Braves traded shortstop Erick Aybar to the Detroit Tigers last night, receiving in exchange infielder Mike Aviles and catching prospect Kade Scivicque. Here's a quick take on the newest member of the Braves farm system.

Kade Scivicque, C: Well-known to college baseball fans, Scivicque was the primary starting catcher for Louisiana State University in 2014 and 2015. He was particularly impressive during his senior year, hitting .355/.398/.521 and earning a spot in the fourth round of the 2015 draft. He hit .242/.306/.358 in 42 games for West Michigan in the Midwest League after signing, but has hit better in 2016 with a .282/.325/.380 line for Lakeland in the Florida State League. Overall, in 615 professional at-bats he's hit .278/.328/.380 with 11 homers, 34 walks, and 112 strikeouts while throwing out 33% of runners attempting to steal.

Scivicque is 6-0, 225, a right-handed hitter born March 22nd, 1993. He is a pull hitter and will flash good raw power at times, but his approach is rather aggressive and it remains to be seen how he'll adapt to higher level pitching. His defensive tools are considered just average, with neither his arm strength nor his mobility standing out as anything special, however his leadership skills behind the plate are considered very impressive and he blocks pitches well. He'll stick behind the plate as he moves up, but whether he can be more than a reserve will depend on the bat.