If the Braves explore trading right fielder Jeff Francoeur, the Royals likely would be the team with the most interest. Royals GM Dayton Moore was the Braves' farm director when Francoeur rose through the minors. However, others in the organization are not high on Francoeur, one source said.

The Red Sox have taken two looks at Francoeur, according to another source. Francoeur's poor plate discipline would make him a questionable fit in Boston, but perhaps the Sox see an opportunity to buy low, if they are indeed interested.

The Braves will need to find a power hitter in left even if they keep Francoeur, so trading him would effectively create two holes. Better they give Francoeur every opportunity to straighten out. He was 8-for-17 in his last five games before going 0-for-4 Monday.