In the ongoing MLB offseason, the Atlanta Braves have been steadfast in addressing their primary need — bolstering their pitching staff. The team has executed various moves to fortify its bullpen, including retaining Joe Jimenez, Pierce Johnson, and Charlie Morton. Additionally, they secured the services of Reynaldo Lopez through free agency and acquired Aaron Bummer in a noteworthy six-player trade with the Chicago White Sox. These strategic moves have significantly improved the Braves’ bullpen, elevating it to a more formidable position compared to the previous season.
With the bullpen now in a favorable state, the Braves have shifted their focus to enhancing the starting rotation. Notably, the team made a considerable offer to Aaron Nola, who ultimately decided to return to the Philadelphia Phillies on a seven-year deal. The Braves also pursued Sonny Gray, but he opted for a three-year, $75 million contract with the St. Louis Cardinals. The latest reports suggest that the Braves are finalists in the pursuit of White Sox ace Dylan Cease, signaling a potential addition of a high-profile name to their rotation.
In terms of offensive requirements, the Braves find themselves in a relatively stable position. Most of the team’s position players are young stars with secured contracts for the foreseeable future. However, left field stands out as a position that requires attention, following the departure of Kevin Pillar and Eddie Rosario. This vacuum in the outfield has prompted the Braves to consider options, with Vaughn Grissom being a potential candidate for the role. Nevertheless, the team recognizes the need for additional depth and is exploring avenues to secure a reliable option.
Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report recently unveiled his initial Opening Day lineup predictions for the Braves, introducing an intriguing name to fill the void in left field. As the Braves continue their offseason maneuvers, the baseball community eagerly awaits further developments, anticipating the addition of a notable figure to enhance the team’s overall competitiveness. The upcoming season holds promise for the Braves, with a reinvigorated pitching staff and potential reinforcements on the offensive front.
Projected Starting Lineup
RF Ronald Acuña Jr.
2B Ozzie Albies
3B Austin Riley
1B Matt Olson
DH Marcell Ozuna
C Sean Murphy
CF Michael Harris II
LF Hunter Renfroe
SS Orlando Arcia
SP Max Fried
I don’t mind the idea of adding Hunter Renfroe to this lineup. He’s coming off a bit of a down year, recording a .713 OPS with 20 homers between two teams, but he combined for 60 home runs in 2021-2022. Renfroe could be considered a slight upgrade over Eddie Rosario, but that might be generous, and shouldn’t cost more than $10 million on a one-year pact.
Leave a Reply