The Atlanta Braves, in first place at the All-Star break, nonetheless moved aggressively to try and improve their team for the second half, trading shortstop Yunel Escobar and pitcher Jo-Jo Reyes for Blue Jays shortstop Alex Gonzalez as part of a five-player deal.

The Braves didn't waste time to bolster their offense. Gonzalez 33, hit .259 with 25 doubles, 17 home runs and had 50 RBI in 85 games with the Blue Jays this season. He's also considered a gifted defensive player who should aid Atlanta's ground-ball pitchers such as Tim Hudson and Derek Lowe.

General manager Frank Wren said the Braves were looking for different ways to improve their offense. "He (Alex) fits perfectly into what we are doing," Wren said. "He is an outstanding defensive shortstop and a very dangerous hitter."

Wren also said it's up to Bobby Cox to determine where Gonzalez is going to hit. "It's a good problem to have - where a productive hitter will hit in the lineup," Wren said.

Escobar, 27, will assume the same roll with the Blue Jays. He is batting .238 with 12 doubles at the break.

By Scott Boeck