After suffering a tough defeat in not making the playoffs last season with a 10 game wild card lead going into August, the Braves are looking to regroup. It was a slow off season for Atlanta with rumors flying that Martin Prado or Jair Jurrjens would be traded before Spring training. GM Frank Wren tried to make some trades, but just couldn't find a suitor that matched up. The Braves and Orioles had talks about Prado, JJ, and a prospect for Adam Jones and JJ. Hardy but talks fell slowly. They aren't officially over, but it doesn't look likely at this point. The Braves did make some minor moves. Their biggest move was trading away fading veteran pitcher Derek Lowe to the Indians for Single A pitcher Chris Jones and cash. Atlanta was also able to resign Jack Wilson to play back up at shortstop for rookie Tyler Pastornicky who will be given a shot at the starting job at the start of the season. Eric Hinske's option was picked up and he will be back for at least another year. Atlanta also added some minor league players who have played at the professional level, and have spring training invites.
Luis Durango a speedy outfielder who can attribute to the braves as a back up and utilityhitter. Here are his career numbers: .292 AVG., .361 OBP, .292 SLG. He has also stole 7 out of 8 bases in his MLB time. Some other notable pick ups this off season are: Dusty Hughes, Adam Russel (Relief Pitchers), and Drew Sutton utility infielder. In other Braves news they unveiled there newest jerseys.( If you look to the right hand side of the blog there are all the braves links to updates) If your wondering at what the projected Atlanta Braves lineup will be this year here is my opinion.
1. Micheal Bourn CF
2. Martin Prado LF
3. Chipper Jones 3B
4. Brian McCann C
5. Dan Uggla 2B
6. Freddie Freeman 1B
7. Jason Heyward RF
8. Tyler Pastornicky
9. Pitcher
This is my opinion but well see for oursleves soon enough! Pitchers and catchers report to camp February19th! Check her for all your Braves latest news and GO BRAVES!!!!
Great post, Matt!! Your writing is excellent:)
ReplyDelete