The Braves on Tuesday acquired right-hander Ben Heller from Tampa Bay for international bonus-pool money.
The Braves optioned Heller to Triple-A Gwinnett. He’ll serve as depth for the organization.
To create room on the 40-man roster, the Braves designated outfielder Nick Solak for assignment.
Last week, the Rays designated Heller for assignment.
The 31-year-old has pitched in 31 major-league games over parts of four seasons, all with the Yankees. He has posted a 2.59 ERA over 31-1/3 innings pitched. He has 30 strikeouts and 15 walks in the majors.
In 18 games with Triple-A Durham this season, he had a 3.95 ERA over 27-1/3 frames. He struck out 34 batters and walked eight.
Cleveland drafted Heller in the 22nd round of the 2013 MLB draft. Since then, he’s posted a 2.97 ERA over 284-2/3 innings across 233 minor-league appearances. He has a 1.12 WHIP over his career in the minors. He’s averaged 11.8 strikeouts per nine innings.
He also has a minor-league option, which gives the Braves flexibility in using him as depth this season.
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