Braves signed LHP Fabian Williamson to a minor league contract.

Williamson was pitching for the Winnipeg Goldeyes of the independent American Association. The 23-year-old left-hander has a 4.00 ERA over parts of six seasons in the minors between Mariners, Red Sox and Athletics. He'll function as organizational fodder.

Athletics acquired LHP Fabian Williamson from the Red Sox for outfielder-infielder Eric Patterson.

Williamson, 21, has posted a 4-3 record, 3.72 ERA and a 1.41 WHIP this season in 14 starts for Single-A Salem. The Red Sox acquired him in the 2009 offseason for David Aardsma, who has turned his career around as the Mariners' closer. Williamson is young, but very far from the big leagues.