Justin Upton trade rumors: Atlanta Braves may be better fit than Texas Rangers

Justin Upton may not be going to the Texas Rangers after all. According to reports, the Atlanta Braves look like a better fit for the 25-year-old.

According to ESPN's Buster Olney:

Texas a good fit for Upton -- but not perfect, because the lineup is so RHed. Atlanta could be a better fit, from the team's perspective.

— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) January 4, 2013

After losing left-handed slugger Josh Hamilton to the Los Angeles Angels via free agency, the Rangers find themselves in need of left-handed power, and as a result, won't benefit as much from a right-handed player like Upton. Olney expanded upon his earlier report:

As we've seen, the Braves do have surplus pitching to deal, if Arizona was looking for a talent-based trade, rather than specific position.

— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) January 4, 2013

So in effect, the Braves could be willing to part with an arm or two in order to secure the services of Upton, who would be a solid fit in their outfield. D-backs hurlers were 9th in the National League in 2012 with a collective 3.93 ERA. Upton hit .280 with 17 home runs and 67 RBA in 2012.