The Braves made some big news Tuesday adding three players at the trade deadline, and also signing star third baseman Austin Riley to a long-term contract.

But a smaller move made Friday might pay off eventually too.

The Braves signed free-agent infielder Taylor Motter to a minor-league contract last week.

Motter suited up for the Gwinnett Stripers Tuesday night and went 3-for-4 with two home runs and three RBIs to lead the Triple-A team to a 6-3 victory over the Charlotte Knights.

Braves reliever Kirby Yates, on a rehab assignment, pitched a scoreless inning for the Stripers.

Pat Valaika also went 3-for-5 with two doubles and three RBIs as Gwinnett (49-51) earned its 11th consecutive win in Charlotte. Alex Dickerson also had three hits, going 3-for-4 with a double.

Motter, who has played for six major-league teams, has 11 homers this season in Triple-A. His 10 total bases Tuesday were a season high for Gwinnett, and he’s just the second player to have three extra-base hits in a game this year.

Motter is hitting .268.

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Credit: Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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