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ATLANTA -- The Atlanta Braves and Hanshin Tigers of the Japanese League have reached a working agreement which will help Atlanta with international scouting, especially in the Far East.

The Braves, led by Eastern Rim scouting coordinator Phil Dale and international scout Hiroyuki Oya, have worked together informally with Hanshin for several years.

"We have worked hard to develop our international scouting and Phil and Hiroyuki have had a good relationship with the Tigers for some time," Braves assistant general manager Dayton Moore said. "This agreement will help us in building a strong and trusting partnership as we seek and exchange information that allows us to acquire talent."