Astros send speedy Bourn to Braves By SPORTS NETWORK

HOUSTON -- The Houston Astros on Sunday traded centre fielder Michael Bourn to the Atlanta Braves for a four-player package.

Bourn hit .303 in 105 games for Houston this season. The 28-year-old leads the majors with 39 stolen bases.

"It's definitely tough leaving Houston, my hometown," Bourn said. "But I understand the trade. I have the chance to be in a pennant race, so I'm happy about that. I want to say thanks to the Houston fans for their support. It was special to me to play in my hometown. And, I want to thank the Astros organization for the opportunity they gave me. I wish them all the best."

In return for the speedy Bourn, a two-time Gold Glove winner, the Astros acquired outfielder Jordan Schafer along with pitchers Juan Abreu, Paul Clemens and Brett Oberholtzer.

Currently sidelined with a fractured finger, Schafer batted .240 with seven RBI in 52 games with the Braves this year.

Abreu compiled a 4-2 record with one save and a 2.25 earned run average in 41 relief appearances for Triple-A Gwinnett.

Clemens and Oberholtzer were both pitching for Double-A Mississippi. The former posted a 6-5 mark and a 3.73 ERA in 20 starts, while the latter made 21 starts, going 9-9 with a 3.74 ERA.