Camp ends! Finals moves TBA for Opening Day.

[rico43]

Braves Roster
(30 as of March 21 plus 4 NRI)

Pitchers
# Name B/T Ht Wt DOB

57 Rex Brothers L/L 6'0" 210 lbs 12/18/87
51 Shane Carle R/R 6'4" 210lbs 8/30/91
75 Grant Dayton (DL) L/L 6'2" 215lbs 11/25/87
26 Mike Foltynewicz R/R 6'4" 220lbs 10/7/91
39 Sam Freeman R/L 5'11" 180lbs 6/24/87
64 Luiz Gohara (DL) L/L 6'3" 210lbs 7/31/96
68 Jacob Lindgren (DL) L/L 5'11" 210lbs 3/12/93
32 Brandon McCarthy R/R 6'7" 235lbs 7/7/83
40 A.J. Minter L/L 6'0" 205lbs 9/2/93
30 Peter Moylan R/R 6/2" 225lbs 12/2/78
15 Sean Newcomb L/L 6'5" 255lbs 6/12/93
52 Jose Ramirez R/R 6'1" 215lbs 1/21/90
49 Julio Teheran R/R 6'2" 205lbs 1/27/91
38 Arodys Vizcaino R/R 6'0" 230lbs 11/13/90
58 Chase Whitley (DL) R/R 6'4" 220lbs 6/14/89
63 Dan Winkler R/R 6'3" 205lbs 2/2/90

Catchers
# Name B/T Ht Wt DOB
25 Tyler Flowers R/R 6'4" 260lbs 1/24/86
24 Kurt Suzuki R/R 5'11" 205lbs 10/4/83
8 Chris Stewart R/R 6'4" 202lbs 2/1/82
Infield
# Name B/T Ht Wt DOB
1 Ozzie Albies S/R 5'9" 160lbs 1/7/97
17 Johan Camargo (DL) S/R 6'0" 160lbs 12/13/93
16 Charlie Culberson R/R 6'0" 200lbs 4/10/89
27 Ryan Flaherty R/R 6'3" 220lbs 7/27/86
5 Freddie Freeman L/R 6'5" 220lbs 9/12/89
7 Dansby Swanson R/R 6'1" 190lbs 2/11/94
Outfield
# Name B/T Ht Wt DOB
18 Lane Adams R/R 6'3" 220lbs 11/13/89
12 Peter Bourjos R/R 6'1" 175lbs 3/31/87
11 Ender Inciarte L/L 5'11" 190lbs 10/29/90
22 Nick Markakis L/L 6'1" 215lbs 11/17/83
20 Preston Tucker L/L 6'0" 220lbs 7/6/90

[nsacpi]

Added to the major league roster on 10/2 (all already on 40-man)

Akeel Morris
Jesse Biddle
Mauricio Cabrera
Aaron Blair
Jason Hursh

All pitchers, of course

Jacob Lindgren, Armando Rivero and Danny Santana are all on 60-day DL as of 10/4 and do not count towards 40-man roster. by the time of the rule 5 draft we won't be able to stash guys on the 60 day DL

[rico43]

by the time of the rule 5 draft we won't be able to stash guys on the 60 day DL

Agreed. But the MLB.com 40-man has not yet begun to sort out the free agents and the DFAs which will come along soon enough. The OP is basically a status report.

[cajunrevenge]

I just want Hursh to go away. I just want to vomit anytime I think of our low ceiling high floor college pitcher phase. So man wasted picks. If we get a high ceiling prospect and he busts I understand, can't win em all, but with **** like Hursh the upside was a good reliever. Makes me yearn for Joey Devine. Atleast he had a good name.

[clvclv]

Still expecting Frietas, Garcia, Hursh, Motte, and Sanchez to be trimmed to clear room. Another spot clears if/when Dickey makes it official. Wisler, Krol, and one of Jace or Micah Johnson become candidates to be released if even more room is needed.

Not sure we couldn't get every one of them back on minor league deals before camp opens.

[Chico]

Still expecting Frietas, Garcia, Hursh, Motte, and Sanchez to be trimmed to clear room. Another spot clears if/when Dickey makes it official. Wisler, Krol, and one of Jace or Micah Johnson become candidates to be released if even more room is needed.

Not sure we couldn't get every one of them back on minor league deals before camp opens.

Motte is a Free agent. He's already trimmed

[50PoundHead]

Still expecting Frietas, Garcia, Hursh, Motte, and Sanchez to be trimmed to clear room. Another spot clears if/when Dickey makes it official. Wisler, Krol, and one of Jace or Micah Johnson become candidates to be released if even more room is needed.

Not sure we couldn't get every one of them back on minor league deals before camp opens.

Won't be a big loss or gain depending on the decision, but I thought he played fairly well in September (although one has to take September performance with a grain of salt). Not a horrid 25th guy (just don't ask him to play 1B). Surprising thing with Peterson is that his defense has fallen off. After looking like a decent 2B in his year as a regular, he has really struggled with the glove.

[clvclv]

Motte is a Free agent. He's already trimmed

Still on the 40-Man Roster page, but that's correct.

[clvclv]

Gotta figure Biddle starts out in camp with a legitimate shot at making Krol disappear for good. He's getting expensive - relatively speaking - and with Minter and Freeman as virtual locks to be the top two lefties in the pen, Lindgren working his way back, and Clouse beginning to knock on the door, it's going to be pretty tough to justify paying Krol a seven-figure salary to be the third lefty down there.

[Chico]

Gotta figure Biddle starts out in camp with a legitimate shot at making Krol disappear for good. He's getting expensive - relatively speaking - and with Minter and Freeman as virtual locks to be the top two lefties in the pen, Lindgren working his way back, and Clouse beginning to knock on the door, it's going to be pretty tough to justify paying Krol a seven-figure salary to be the third lefty down there.

I think Lindgren will be out of options unless this year does not count since he was injured all year. Either way I think he and Minter are in the pen come opening day. He started throwing already. I think he'll be good to come back.

Kroll is definitely gone. We missed our window to flip him this offseason after his best season. I think we should flip Freeman for the same reason.

We could have Brothers, Biddle, and Clouse in AAA to start the year with Minter/Lindgren in the Atlanta pen. I'd take that.

[rico43]

Outside the box thinking, but four days after the World Series the Royals and Mike Minor have a mutal option at $10 M next year. Since he's now entrenched as a reliever, the $!.25 M buyout makes more sense for the Royals.

Minor in 2017 was 6-6, 2.55 in 65 games and notably closed out the win that ended the Indians winning streak. Allowed only 57 hits in 78 innings (88 strikeouts). He seems good to go and he was a helluva pitcher in 2013 when healthy. Guessing he'll sign for well under $10 M, and since he's only 29, he'd be a good bet for 2-3 years.

[Southcack77]

Outside the box thinking, but four days after the World Series the Royals and Mike Minor have a mutal option at $10 M next year. Since he's now entrenched as a reliever, the $!.25 M buyout makes more sense for the Royals.

Minor in 2017 was 6-6, 2.55 in 65 games and notably closed out the win that ended the Indians winning streak. Allowed only 57 hits in 78 innings (88 strikeouts). He seems good to go and he was a helluva pitcher in 2013 when healthy. Guessing he'll sign for well under $10 M, and since he's only 29, he'd be a good bet for 2-3 years.

One thing I noticed about the Royals was a willingness to turn failed pitching prospects into high end relievers.

[clvclv]

Outside the box thinking, but four days after the World Series the Royals and Mike Minor have a mutal option at $10 M next year. Since he's now entrenched as a reliever, the $!.25 M buyout makes more sense for the Royals.

Minor in 2017 was 6-6, 2.55 in 65 games and notably closed out the win that ended the Indians winning streak. Allowed only 57 hits in 78 innings (88 strikeouts). He seems good to go and he was a helluva pitcher in 2013 when healthy. Guessing he'll sign for well under $10 M, and since he's only 29, he'd be a good bet for 2-3 years.

Can't recall exactly where I saw it, but they're (KC and Minor) kicking around the thought of putting him back in the rotation next year.

JMO, but I'd pass. We've had terrible luck with most veteran reclamation projects of late - Dat Dude and a precious few others aside - and Mike's likely going to require a multi-year deal to sign. I think he's been a great story, and love those as much as the next person, but we've got plenty of arms that are ready (or close) enough to help ( in the rotation and pen) without committing multiple years to someone that's that big a health risk. I certainly don't disagree with the potential upside, but we're still trying to dig out from under a similar multi-year commitment to Johnson where we bid that second year (against ourselves) for no reason. Nobody else was about to offer JJ a second year other than us - just personally don't want to get into the same kind of situation with Minor. If someone else is willing to give him more than one season, I wish him well - if he's still unsigned sometime in January and wants to talk, then I'd call his reps.

[nsacpi]

I think Lindgren will be out of options unless this year does not count since he was injured all year.

He has an option let. The Yankees used up two option years in 2015 and 2016. He spent all of 2017 on the DL (no options used). Gives us some flexibility.

Sam Freeman has no options left.

[rico43]

He has an option let. The Yankees used up two option years in 2015 and 2016. He spent all of 2017 on the DL (no options used). Gives us some flexibility.

Sam Freeman has no options left.

Pretty clear now that Freeman is a major league pitcher. Any team that would option him doesn't need him in the first place.

[Chico]

Pretty clear now that Freeman is a major league pitcher. Any team that would option him doesn't need him in the first place.

I know it's not a popular opinion, but if you can get a return I'd sell high on Freeman and Ramirez. I'm skeptical of a reliever having career year at 30, and Ramirez seems to be out performing his peripherals.

If it were me Minter, Lindgren, Winkler, Viz are my core with Sims as my swingman and 2 more vet relievers acquired if you could flip JJ or 1 more and JJ...Then stock AAA with guys who have options who could step in whenever needed or force you to trade a guy from your major league pen to make room for them.

[nsacpi]

Cabrera, Brothers and Morris are out of options. I think we can still assign those guys to AAA at the end of spring training without risk of another team claiming them. But we won't have the flexibility of optioning them back and forth at will. I'd rather have guys with options too. But guys like Cabrera, Brothers and Morris are not bad to have in AAA.

[Chico]

Cabrera, Brothers and Morris are out of options. I think we can still assign those guys to AAA at the end of spring training without risk of another team claiming them. But we won't have the flexibility of optioning them back and forth at will. I'd rather have guys with options too. But guys like Cabrera, Brothers and Morris are not bad to have in AAA.

I thought Brothers had another option

[nsacpi]

I thought Brothers had another optionwe burned it in
August when we went him down for 10 days...small thing but dumb...asleep at the switch...but then we also screwed up some basic stuff like thinking we didn't have room on the 40 man for Micah and him finding out on twitter about it

gold standard organization...braves way...blah blah blah

[BeanieAntics]

Cabrera, Brothers and Morris are out of options. I think we can still assign those guys to AAA at the end of spring training without risk of another team claiming them. But we won't have the flexibility of optioning them back and forth at will. I'd rather have guys with options too. But guys like Cabrera, Brothers and Morris are not bad to have in AAA.

I hope we just kinda stick with Morris and give him a chance to succeed at the ML level. He is one of the few guys that I really believe in. I think he has a chance to be very very good for us. A changeup as good as his is pretty darn rare. I would like to see him utilize his slider more often too, so maybe he does need a little time in AAA to develop that more, but I think he is old enough to just give him an extended look in the majors.

[nsacpi]

The way I see the pen shaking out is this. Seven spots are likely taken: Viz, Johnson, Ramirez, Minty, Freeman, Winkler and someone who will be signed or traded for this off-season.

Snit seems to favor 8 in the pen. So there is potentially room for 1 more. The question is whether we keep all or Morris, Brothers, Krol, Cabrera, Jackson, and Rivero on the 40-man to compete for that one spot.

Hursh, Lindgren, Wisler, Blair and Biddle have options left. I think this is a factor which will weigh in favor of keeping them on the 40-man. Might not be the decisive factor, but it is a consideration.

[dak]

we burned it in
August when we went him down for 10 days...small thing but dumb...asleep at the switch...but then we also screwed up some basic stuff like thinking we didn't have room on the 40 man for Micah and him finding out on twitter about it

gold standard organization...braves way...blah blah blah

The optional assignment rules are still a bit confusing to me, but I believe you have to be on optional assignment for 20 or more days for an option year to be burned. So if 10 days was the extent of Brother's optional assignment time for the full year, we would not have burned an option this year.

[nsacpi]

The optional assignment rules are still a bit confusing to me, but I believe you have to be on optional assignment for 20 or more days for an option year to be burned. So if 10 days was the extent of Brother's optional assignment time for the full year, we would not have burned an option this year.

oooh...you might be right

[dak]

Found this Spring 2017 article from the venerable @BravesOptions before he dropped off of Twitter. Building off of what he has here, it seems the following are out of options: Jose Ramirez, Ian Krol, Jace Peterson, Adonis Garcia, Micah Johnson, Mauricio Cabrera, and Luke Jackson. Of note, Akeel Morris appears to have one option year left. I'm not super high on Jose Ramirez, but I think he'll be kept. I expect Krol to be non-tendered. Probably not a black and white situation with the others, but there's no one there I'm dying to keep.

https://www.talkingchop.com/2017/3/29/15104000/options-in-laymans-terms

[Horsehide Harry]

Found this Spring 2017 article from the venerable @BravesOptions before he dropped off of Twitter. Building off of what he has here, it seems the following are out of options: Jose Ramirez, Ian Krol, Jace Peterson, Adonis Garcia, Micah Johnson, Mauricio Cabrera, and Luke Jackson. Of note, Akeel Morris appears to have one option year left. I'm not super high on Jose Ramirez, but I think he'll be kept. I expect Krol to be non-tendered. Probably not a black and white situation with the others, but there's no one there I'm dying to keep.

https://www.talkingchop.com/2017/3/29/15104000/options-in-laymans-terms

They should keep Ramirez, Krol and Jackson. I think you keep Krol because he's had some success, is a lefty and is cheap. I think you keep him through ST of 2018 at least to see if he rebounds. Jackson is the RH version of that.

The rest can go.

[nsacpi]

I see that Akeel Morris was optioned in 2015 (June 18 by the Mets), 2016 (March 11 by the Mets, August 13 by the Braves) and 2017 (March 16 and August 1 by the Braves), in each case for more than 20 days.

[nsacpi]

They should keep Ramirez, Krol and Jackson. I think you keep Krol because he's had some success, is a lefty and is cheap. I think you keep him through ST of 2018 at least to see if he rebounds. Jackson is the RH version of that.

The rest can go.

Krol career xFIP against lefties 3.76. In 2017 4.40.

Jackson career xFIP against righties 5.11. In 2017 4.73.

There is a marginal case (based on his career numbers) to be made for Krol as a LOOGY. None whatsoever for Jackson as a ROOGY.

Jose Ramirez btw is at 5.26 career xFIP against righties. In 2017 he was at 4.83. Similar to Jackson. Throws harder so maybe keep him in hopes he harnesses the stuff better.

[dak]

I see that Akeel Morris was optioned in 2015 (June 18 by the Mets), 2016 (March 11 by the Mets, August 13 by the Braves) and 2017 (March 16 and August 1 by the Braves), in each case for more than 20 days.

Yep, I see it the same way. I believe he is eligible for a 4th minor league option since he doesn't have 5 full seasons (90 days active in a given year) of professional baseball.

[dak]

Found this Spring 2017 article from the venerable @BravesOptions before he dropped off of Twitter. Building off of what he has here, it seems the following are out of options: Jose Ramirez, Ian Krol, Jace Peterson, Adonis Garcia, Micah Johnson, Mauricio Cabrera, and Luke Jackson. Of note, Akeel Morris appears to have one option year left. I'm not super high on Jose Ramirez, but I think he'll be kept. I expect Krol to be non-tendered. Probably not a black and white situation with the others, but there's no one there I'm dying to keep.

https://www.talkingchop.com/2017/3/29/15104000/options-in-laymans-terms

For completeness, of the players the Braves added to the 40-man after this article, I believe Sam Freeman, Lane Adams, and Tony Sanchez are all out of options.

[Horsehide Harry]

Krol career xFIP against lefties 3.76. In 2017 4.40.

Jackson career xFIP against righties 5.11. In 2017 4.73.

There is a marginal case (based on his career numbers) to be made for Krol as a LOOGY. None whatsoever for Jackson as a ROOGY.

Jose Ramirez btw is at 5.26 career xFIP against righties. In 2017 he was at 4.83. Similar to Jackson. Throws harder so maybe keep him in hopes he harnesses the stuff better.

But short careers all.

I would feel differently if the sample size were bigger OR the team was sure fire contender in 2018

[MadduxFanII]

The bigger question with Brothers is whether you want him back at all. I was an advocate for signing him, but that is one butt-ugly ERA.

On the one hand, the FIP is actually pretty respectable, and the K rate is nice and shiny. On the other hand, when you see such a drastic difference between ERA and FIP, it doesn't always mean the pitcher is really unlucky - sometime it just means that hitters are teeing off on a guy.

[nsacpi]

But short careers all.

I would feel differently if the sample size were bigger OR the team was sure fire contender in 2018
they're not young and compare poorly to Minty, Freeman and Winkler.

[Horsehide Harry]

they're not young and compare poorly to Minty, Freeman and Winkler.

They aren't exactly old either. They are mid 20's. And none will cost much more than league minimum. I would keep them on the 40 man to see if they can be developed at least through ST 2018. For where the Braves are no need to throw them out just because you think you may have better options.

[Chico]

I had been thinking Lindgren and Morris were out of options. That's great if they are not and could be the reasoning behind keeping Morris down. However it plays out the goal should be to have a shut down pen in Atlanta as well as Gwinnett. I'd like 5-6 good arms in AAA waiting for an injury or an excuse to trade a reliever from the major league team.

[BeanieAntics]

I'm definitely not gonna lump Morris into the "let them go" camp. Someone with a changeup as good as his, I believe, has a really good shot at being a solid major leaguer. His changeup reminds me of Fernando Rodney's even though he doesn't have Rodney's velocity. I really like Akeel

[Enscheff]

Here are xwOBA values for all Braves pitchers who faced 20+ batters. Anyone with a .320 value or less is an above average MLB pitcher (or has shown glimpses of being one) and deserves a spot in the 2018 BP.

Rk. Player Results xwOBA
1 A.J. Minter 13.357 for 60 0.223
2 Dan Winkler 13.344 for 53 0.252
3 Akeel Morris 8.801 for 32 0.275
4 Sam Freeman 70.409 for 254 0.277
5 Luiz Gohara 34.966 for 123 0.284
6 Arodys Vizcaino 68.436 for 235 0.291
7 Jaime Garcia 143.714 for 474 0.303
8 Rex Brothers 32.075 for 105 0.305
9 Jose Ramirez 80.893 for 258 0.314
10 Jim Johnson 80.314 for 256 0.314
11 R.A. Dickey 257.727 for 815 0.316
12 Julio Teheran 259.664 for 812 0.320
13 Sean Newcomb 149.054 for 456 0.327
14 Mike Foltynewicz 226.362 for 692 0.327
15 Lucas Sims 83.585 for 255 0.328
16 Ian Krol 71.286 for 214 0.333
17 Jason Hursh 15.655 for 47 0.333
18 Jason Motte 55.531 for 166 0.335
19 Eric O'Flaherty 28.914 for 83 0.348
20 Max Fried 42.584 for 121 0.352
21 Josh Collmenter 30.665 for 87 0.352
22 Bartolo Colon 105.716 for 299 0.354
23 Luke Jackson 79.460 for 224 0.355
24 Matt Wisler 56.724 for 153 0.371

These values tell me Sims needs more of a shot despite the appearance of sub-par stuff. I could see the Rays valuing him and MAdams as about half the value required to acquire Odorizzi with the other half being a FV 45/50 pitching prospect.

[nsacpi]

good to see the data provide some support for the positive impression I had of Sims...i have no trouble with him going back to AAA but I think he has a shot to be a useful major league starting pitcher

[Enscheff]

good to see the data provide some support for the positive impression I had of Sims...i have no trouble with him going back to AAA but I think he has a shot to be a useful major league starting pitcher

Dickey, Teheran, Folty, Newk and Sims all clustered around the .315-.325 range, which is a #4 SP. I expect improvement from Teheran next year in the form of better command.

Gohara is singlehandedly bouying the pitching heavy rebuild as he is already at least a 2-pitch #3+...a LHed Archer. Hopefully he marches towards the top of the rotation as his change and stamina improve. If his stamina remains an issue he can be an elite 3 win BP arm.

[dak]

According to the Braves transaction page, Ian Krol was outrighted to Gwinnett today. I believe he has the option to accept the assignment or elect free agency, with the latter being most likely.

It's looks like it takes 72 hours to pass through outright assignment waivers, so this is a move the Braves made Monday. Wonder if we'll see others show up as outrighted in the coming days.

[Chico]

According to the Braves transaction page, Ian Krol was outrighted to Gwinnett today. I believe he has the option to accept the assignment or elect free agency, with the latter being most likely.

It's looks like it takes 72 hours to pass through outright assignment waivers, so this is a move the Braves made Monday. Wonder if we'll see others show up as outrighted in the coming days.

I'm over Kroll...Hope he elects free agency. We should have flipped him this past offseason when he had value.

[Enscheff]

I'm over Kroll...Hope he elects free agency. We should have flipped him this past offseason when he had value.

Selling high on BP arms that experience unexpected success is always smart. Sam Freeman might be that guy this year. He is one of the Braves 3 "sell high" pieces, in my opinion.

[BeanieAntics]

Selling high on BP arms that experience unexpected success is always smart. Sam Freeman might be that guy this year. He is one of the Braves 3 "sell high" pieces, in my opinion.

I don't think they will this offseason, in the hope that they will compete and he can contribute. But since they likely won't be competing, I think our best hope is that Freeman continues his success so maybe he can be moved at the deadline next year.

[Enscheff]

I don't think they will this offseason, in the hope that they will compete and he can contribute. But since they likely won't be competing, I think our best hope is that Freeman continues his success so maybe he can be moved at the deadline next year.

I don't think they will either, but Freeman, Camargo and Riley are the 3 guys I think are currently at peak value.

I'm still holding out hope they can fix the OF and see enough organic improvement in the rotation that the Braves can be limited buyers at the deadline.

[Horsehide Harry]

Selling high on BP arms that experience unexpected success is always smart. Sam Freeman might be that guy this year. He is one of the Braves 3 "sell high" pieces, in my opinion.

Given the current situation,

I think the "sell high" candidates for the Braves are:

1. Viz
2. S Freeman
3. Inciarte
4. M Adams
5. Camargo
6. Ramirez

[Horsehide Harry]

I don't think they will either, but Freeman, Camargo and Riley are the 3 guys I think are currently at peak value.

I'm still holding out hope they can fix the OF and see enough organic improvement in the rotation that the Braves can be limited buyers at the deadline.

I agree as well on Riley if we are dipping into the minor leagues

[Eyeman]

Yep, I'd sell S Freeman and Viz. We'll have plenty of bullpen pieces soon.

I don't think we are gonna be able to get rid of Kemp without taking on a bad contract. Why has no one ever tried him at first? I'd use him somewhat like we used Matt Adams this year and sell Matt Adams.

I'd sell Markakis later in the season just to keep Acuna down for a little while.

I'd keep Camargo. His poor range and huge arm make him perfect to backup third and RF. If he can keep hitting like he is, then he solves the third base issue unless we trade for one. I'd love to see him make some throws from RF.

[BeanieAntics]

I don't think they will either, but Freeman, Camargo and Riley are the 3 guys I think are currently at peak value.

I'm still holding out hope they can fix the OF and see enough organic improvement in the rotation that the Braves can be limited buyers at the deadline.

Camargo is definitely the biggest sell high candidate for me. I would also throw Viz in there as well, along with the other two you mentioned. I guess Riley is the guy I'm a little bit iffy on, because I just don't know whether I'm a believer in his upside or not. He is probably the most confusing prospect in our system to me. I wouldn't lose any sleep over moving him, but I also think him actually turning into something isn't out of the question. Perhaps his value is higher than his potential upside at the moment, in which case I would agree with moving him

[Enscheff]

I see everyone mentioning Viz. While I don't think they will trade him, it seems like we have been saying "trade Viz as soon as his value rises" for years now.

I can't argue with the logic behind pulling the trigger on such a trade now.

[clvclv]

Krol outrighted to Gwinnett (yesterday).

There's a 40-Man slot. (Makes room for Lindgren.)

[Southcack77]

The comment that the Braves want to acquire one or two real options for high leverage situations doesn't speak a whole lot to how much they like guys like Johnson, Vizcaino, Ramirez.

With Vizcaino becoming more expensive seems like a trade candidate.

[Chico]

Freeman is having a career year at 30. Ramirez is outpitching his peripherals. I think those 2 are a good bet to be traded and they're also cheap.

I also think Viz is traded because he cannot make it a whole season and he's now in aribitration. If we were going to let him get some saves to up his trade value I'd say keep him, but he's not going to increase his trade value being a middle reliever.

I think Johnson will be flipped if possible.

If it's me I go in with Minter, Lindgren, Winkler, and Morris as my core, add 2 late inning guys,and then give the swing man role to whomever it makes sense to at the conlcusion of spring training...probably Sims.

[clvclv]

The comment that the Braves want to acquire one or two real options for high leverage situations doesn't speak a whole lot to how much they like guys like Johnson, Vizcaino, Ramirez.

With Vizcaino becoming more expensive seems like a trade candidate.

Always thought any nice words tossed Johnson's way were simply GM-Speak in the hopes they could get someone to take some of his money and free up a roster spot anyway. The thing the Old Guard doesn't understand is that GM-Speak doesn't fool anyone other than your less-informed fanbase - other teams certainly aren't buying it.

When you're in a rebuild and are teetering as to whether you're close enough to get on the fringes of .500/competition, simply be honest and tell guys like Johnson that if he doesn't pitch better you're going to cut him loose, and Kemp that if he doesn't keep his fat *ss in better shape he's going to be a pinch-hitter until the end of his deal.

[nsacpi]

The comment that the Braves want to acquire one or two real options for high leverage situations doesn't speak a whole lot to how much they like guys like Johnson, Vizcaino, Ramirez.

With Vizcaino becoming more expensive seems like a trade candidate.

Most likely I think we will acquire one bullpen arm and spend most of the remaining funds on someone who can play third (I have in mind someone not too expensive such as Nunez).

Right now I think the eight with the best chances of making the team out of spring training are: New Guy, Viz, JJ, Ramirez, Freeman, Minter, Winkler and Morris.

Some of the others who still have options will probably be kept on the 40-man: Hursh, Brothers and Lindgren.

It makes less sense to hold on to the guys who do not have options and don't have an inside track toward making the team. Krol has already been moved off the 40-man. I think the same might happen to Luke Jackson.

[ixiXSolidXixi]

Few questions!! This enough?
Sean Newcomb and Aroldis Vizcaíno for Aj Pollock and his contract year?

Matt Kemp, Touki Toussaint and Mike Foltynewicz for Michael Fulmer,Jordan Zimmermann and 10 mil.

Lucas Sims, Nick Markakis and Jim Johnson for Brad Brach

[CyYoung31]

Few questions!! This enough?
Sean Newcomb and Aroldis Vizcaíno for Aj Pollock and his contract year?

Matt Kemp, Touki Toussaint and Mike Foltynewicz for Michael Fulmer,Jordan Zimmermann and 10 mil.

Lucas Sims, Nick Markakis and Jim Johnson for Brad Brach

I think you need to sit back and ask yourself why those teams would do any of those trades.

[Southcack77]

Always thought any nice words tossed Johnson's way were simply GM-Speak in the hopes they could get someone to take some of his money and free up a roster spot anyway. The thing the Old Guard doesn't understand is that GM-Speak doesn't fool anyone other than your less-informed fanbase - other teams certainly aren't buying it.

When you're in a rebuild and are teetering as to whether you're close enough to get on the fringes of .500/competition, simply be honest and tell guys like Johnson that if he doesn't pitch better you're going to cut him loose, and Kemp that if he doesn't keep his fat *ss in better shape he's going to be a pinch-hitter until the end of his deal.

They are stuck with Johnson until he demonstrates he has bounced back from whatever happened for the second time here at the end of the season. I think its possible he does, but I don't see anyone lining up to take him before Spring unless the Braves eat money and for some reason they don't want to do that.

[dak]

Another non-shocker, Armando Rivero has also passed through outright assignment waivers and was outrighted to GWI per Braves transaction page. Not sure if he has to be offered back to the Cubs now, or if that maybe already happened. At any rate, he's off the 40-man.

[clvclv]

They are stuck with Johnson until he demonstrates he has bounced back from whatever happened for the second time here at the end of the season. I think its possible he does, but I don't see anyone lining up to take him before Spring unless the Braves eat money and for some reason they don't want to do that.

Just have to figure there's little reason to eat any of Johnson's money unless they REALLY need a 40-Man Roster spot. Same with Markakis - the money's already spent anyway. If everyone's going to keep doing you the favors of allowing you to hang onto options like Krol and Rivero without having to waste a roster spot on them, you might as well hang on to them and see if they look better in camp in February and March...options.

[ixiXSolidXixi]

I think you need to sit back and ask yourself why those teams would do any of those trades.
I am not a GM and probably the GM is not going to do any of that.
Arizona wants Jd Martinez
They have David Peralta and Yasmani Tomas. Just asking where they play Jd Martinez? Plus Pollock is a free agent after the year.
Plus they need a closer because Fernando Rodney have 40 years and i believe Vizcaino he can do the job and cheaper.

Detroit is cleaning house and if they can trade that bad contract of Jordan Zimmerman they may listen plus Michael Fulmer is coming from a injury. Jordan Zimmerman still have 3 more years and 74 mil and Matt Kemp 2 and 36 mil.

Baltimore; Seth Smith is free agent and they need a outfielder. Nick Markakis he can cover that position and Lucas Sims still a prospect and they need to make their rotation better.

Sooner or later Braves are going to trade pitchers. Because you can’t have a rotation of 15 pitchers.

[nsacpi]

The O's (and other teams looking for a corner outfielder) will probably check the price on guys like Seth Smith and Jay Bruce before trying to make a trade for someone like Muk.

[Southcack77]

Armando Rivero has been outrighed to Gwinnett, which suggests that the Cubs declined to take him back.

[Enscheff]

The O's (and other teams looking for a corner outfielder) will probably check the price on guys like Seth Smith and Jay Bruce before trying to make a trade for someone like Muk.

Yeah, Markakis is going to have to go to one of the few remaining stone aged teams that value "consistency" and "playing the game the right way".

[dak]

According to the Braves transaction page, Tony Sanchez (out of options) was outrighted to GWI today . . . not a surprise.

Also, saw where Jerry Crasnick tweeted that Ian Krol did not accept his assignment to GWI and has elected free agency.

[clvclv]

According to the Braves transaction page, Tony Sanchez (out of options) was outrighted to GWI today . . . not a surprise.

Also, saw where Jerry Crasnick tweeted that Ian Krol did not accept his assignment to GWI and has elected free agency.

Just as well - projected to make $1.3 million via arbitration (when on the roster), and he wasn't likely to figure into their plans at this point. Good luck to him as he gambles on himself - hope he catches on somewhere.

[Tapate50]

Sanchez outrighted to AAA.

[clvclv]

Most recent moves (Dickey, Krol, Rivero, Sanchez) put the current 40-Man Roster at 39 when you include Lindgren and Danny Santana (on 60-Day DL for now).

Removing Motte, Frietas, and one of Santana, Micah Johnson, or Jace (if not more than one of them) creates plenty of room for any additions.

[clvclv]

Mariners claim Frietas.

Certainly won't be any 40-Man Roster crunch now.

[rico43]

Going to post 40-man on the OP at the end of the Series.

[rico43]

Reds have claimed Micah Johnson on waivers. Roster problem resolving itself.

[Chico]

We should be at 38 now including Santana and indgren on the 60 Day DL. We have 2 we're surely going to protect in Demeritte and Dpete.

You still have some trimming to do with the most likely candidates being Luke Jackson, Jace, Danny, Adonis, Hursh, and Mauricio.

The most likely guys to protect would be Dirks, Webb, Pike, Roney, and Mader.

[50PoundHead]

We should be at 38 now including Santana and indgren on the 60 Day DL. We have 2 we're surely going to protect in Demeritte and Dpete.

You still have some trimming to do with the most likely candidates being Luke Jackson, Jace, Danny, Adonis, Hursh, and Mauricio.

The most likely guys to protect would be Dirks, Webb, Pike, Roney, and Mader.

I think we keep Cabrera on the 40-man. Guys with fastballs like his simply don't fall out of the sky. I think either Santana or Jace is let go. I'm on the fence with Luke Jackson and (surprisingly) Hursh. Adonis is likely gone. I don't know if we protect any of the last guys you mention. Of them, Pike would probably be the most likely. Webb is a sleeper.

[Chico]

I think we keep Cabrera on the 40-man. Guys with fastballs like his simply don't fall out of the sky. I think either Santana or Jace is let go. I'm on the fence with Luke Jackson and (surprisingly) Hursh. Adonis is likely gone. I don't know if we protect any of the last guys you mention. Of them, Pike would probably be the most likely. Webb is a sleeper.

I think we'll keep Hursh since he has options. Jackson and Cabrera don't have options, so I think they'll be gone. I agree on Adonis and there's no reason to keep both Jace and Danny. One should be gone.


You have to keep Dirks. He struggled some this year but has a proven track record. Pike could have some value if we keep him and move him to the pen.

[nsacpi]

I think we'll keep Hursh since he has options. Jackson and Cabrera don't have options, so I think they'll be gone. I agree on Adonis and there's no reason to keep both Jace and Danny. One should be gone.


You have to keep Dirks. He struggled some this year but has a proven track record. Pike could have some value if we keep him and move him to the pen.

with the new rules regarding the DL, having guys with options who can ride the ML-AAA shuttle all year becomes more important

[50PoundHead]

I think even though Cabrera is out of options, they will keep him around for spring training. He's the kind of guy who may have some cache as a throw-in on a trade. There's always a pitching coach or two (or ten) that drool over a triple-digit fastball and swear they can fix the guy.

[clvclv]

I think we keep Cabrera on the 40-man. Guys with fastballs like his simply don't fall out of the sky. I think either Santana or Jace is let go. I'm on the fence with Luke Jackson and (surprisingly) Hursh. Adonis is likely gone. I don't know if we protect any of the last guys you mention. Of them, Pike would probably be the most likely. Webb is a sleeper.

Guessing Adonis is gone, Santana is gone (more expensive than Jace) - there are your two spots for Demeritte and Peterson.

Motte's spot (still listed on 40) is taken by the veteran pen signing (Kintzler or McGee), and Lindgren is added.

Offer Markakis and a little cash if necessary to Baltimore for Brad Brach - Brach replaces Jackson (released), and Acuna replaces Markakis.

Hursh is released so Brothers can be kept.

Leaves room for a 3B signing (if they so choose), and a spot or two to play with if they choose to protect any of Dirks, Webb, or Pike.

[Enscheff]

Holy hell, Markakis isn't getting Brach back in a trade.

Add that to the list of trade proposals illustrating how little clv knows about player value.

[Horsehide Harry]

It would be nice if we had another 40 man spot or two free to use as necessary instead of bringing guys up unnecessarily in a lost season....

For instance, no reason Krol is now gone unless they know he's hurt. He was a relatively cheap LH with some past success. It would have been smart to at least keep him through ST to see if he bounces back.

[clvclv]

It would be nice if we had another 40 man spot or two free to use as necessary instead of bringing guys up unnecessarily in a lost season....

For instance, no reason Krol is now gone unless they know he's hurt. He was a relatively cheap LH with some past success. It would have been smart to at least keep him through ST to see if he bounces back.

Jacob Lindgren???

[DontStopTheChop]

If the new front office gets Brach for Markakis, they’ll have my vote of support.

However, it’s pretty likely that won’t happen considering Markakis will probably end up a negative player next year while Brach will have more than 15 million in surplus value.

If the Braves want Brach, they’ll likely have to attach a player like Gohara to Markakis.

[Enscheff]

If the new front office gets Brach for Markakis, they’ll have my vote of support.

However, it’s pretty likely that won’t happen considering Markakis will probably end up a negative player next year while Brach will have more than 15 million in surplus value.

If the Braves want Brach, they’ll likely have to attach a player like Gohara to Markakis.

If the Braves trade Gohara for some salary relief and a BP arm with 1 year of control remaining....

[DontStopTheChop]

If the Braves trade Gohara for some salary relief and a BP arm with 1 year of control remaining....

I sure hope they wouldn’t. Then again, John Hart is still employed. If Dayton is hired, what are the chances he overpays moose to play 3B?

[TheBravos]

To me....if Hart has been cleared of wrong doing (even though it proves he was clueless), I think that gives us a better chance of not getting kicked in the teeth quite as hard. If they find it was mainly two guys that were fired...hopefully they have a bit of mercy. The only (good) news about having the John’s around at this point...it’s likely they are friends with many high ups in baseball. They could very well be somewhat easy on the Braves (I can hope at least).

[salmagundy]

Hart being cleared because of no knowledge of Coppy's action is far worse than being named as having knowledge of the illegal actions IMO. It proves that he is not a good leader and thus doesn't deserve to be in the FO. As a leader you designate authority but not responsibility. Hart is over all the place where the buck stops. More reason for McGuirk and Liberty to clear house of poor FO people.

[Enscheff]

I sure hope they wouldn’t. Then again, John Hart is still employed. If Dayton is hired, what are the chances he overpays moose to play 3B?

At this point, almost all scenarios are on the table. Intelligent organizational management is currently not the "Braves Way".

I could see the Braves taking almost any course of action, from mostly standing pat and only adding a BP arm, all the way to selling off major prospect assets and signing a couple large-ish FA deals to "win now".

How the Braves restructure the FO will have a larger long term impact than anything they have done during the rebuild. If they use this opportunity to modernize with bright men/women from outside the organization, they can move to the forefront of baseball ops departments. If they insist on back filling with more dinosaurs who are stuck living in the 90s, like GMDM, they will fall further behind the smartest teams in the game.

I am not optimistic.

[Horsehide Harry]

Jacob Lindgren???

The idea is both. You keep both. That's what rebuilding teams should do. Maximize your options. Save the service time.

[Horsehide Harry]

To me....if Hart has been cleared of wrong doing (even though it proves he was clueless), I think that gives us a better chance of not getting kicked in the teeth quite as hard. If they find it was mainly two guys that were fired...hopefully they have a bit of mercy. The only (good) news about having the John’s around at this point...it’s likely they are friends with many high ups in baseball. They could very well be somewhat easy on the Braves (I can hope at least).

Hearing Braves will have to forfeit rights to all players currently in the AzFL.

:Gasp:

[bravesfanforlife88]

sounds like Hart's job may not be safe at all according to Bowman and DoB

[mfree80]

Hearing Braves will have to forfeit rights to all players currently in the AzFL.

:Gasp:

fake News!!!

[DontStopTheChop]

From what I am reading, it seems as if Hart won't be back. Bowman is just the voice of the front office and has recently tweeted that the Braves are looking for someone to be President of Baseball Operations. Out of the candidates mentioned by DOB, I'm hoping for Ben Cherington even though Cherington did have his own international signing violations. I don't know much about Doug Harris but it seems like he is well respected around the league. However, he worked under Hart in Texas when Hart was the GM so if that means Hart stays as Pres of Baseball Ops, then count me out. I want a fresh start. A new voice. The game has changed so much since we were a powerhouse. We won't find another Bobby. I also want nothing to do with Hendry or Jennings.

This is what I am hoping for:

President of Baseball Ops: Ben Cherington
General Manager: Jason McLeod
Assistant General Manager(s): Adam Fisher and Billy Ryan

However, if Hart is forced out, I think we'll likely see Dayton Moore signed as President of Baseball Ops. He does seem to have the respect of many other front offices and it seems that others have enjoyed working under Moore. I must admit, that would be nice to have since we've apparently lacked that quite some time with Wren and Coppolella. But, I just hope that if Moore comes, he isn't given the GM title as well. If he is willing and able to bring in a top notch analytics guy such as McLeod or Cherington to serve as General Manager then I could absolutely get behind a Dayton Moore signing, even if he isn't my first choice. Just don't know how realistic that is.

[Tapate50]

sounds like Hart's job may not be safe at all according to Bowman and DoB

What I expected

[striker42]

sounds like Hart's job may not be safe at all according to Bowman and DoB

I'm reading the Braves are looking for a new head of baseball ops which implies Hart will not remain in that position. It is entirely possible he's shifted to another role. The fact that the Braves haven't parted ways with him yet makes a position change more likely than a dismissal.

[clvclv]

I'm reading the Braves are looking for a new head of baseball ops which implies Hart will not remain in that position. It is entirely possible he's shifted to another role. The fact that the Braves haven't parted ways with him yet makes a position change more likely than a dismissal.

Although the official date of expiration on his contract isn't known (as far as I can tell). Assuming it expires "after the conclusion of the World Series" or the anniversary date of his hiring, he's not officially unemployed until November 22nd - the date his hiring became official in 2013.

[Tapate50]

I'm reading the Braves are looking for a new head of baseball ops which implies Hart will not remain in that position. It is entirely possible he's shifted to another role. The fact that the Braves haven't parted ways with him yet makes a position change more likely than a dismissal.


Although the official date of expiration on his contract isn't known (as far as I can tell). Assuming it expires "after the conclusion of the World Series" or the anniversary date of his hiring, he's not officially unemployed until November 22nd - the date his hiring became official in 2013.

I think they just aren't going to renew his contract and he isn't going to "work" for free. He just won't be brought back is the most likely scenario. I saw it written that after the conclusion of the YEAR was his contract term.

[clvclv]

Motte and Dickey now officially off the 40-Man Roster.

Now at 39 including Lindgren, Dustin Peterson, and Demeritte by my count.

[bravesfanMatt]

what happened to Motte? did I miss something.

[clvclv]

what happened to Motte? did I miss something.

"Elected Free-Agency" according to the transactions page. Don't think they intended to offer him a contract anyway - just procedural (like Dickey).

[clvclv]

Santana and Lindgren activated from the 60-Day DL.

[rico43]

Hearing Braves will have to forfeit rights to all players currently in the AzFL.

:Gasp:

BOGUS ... Worthless attempt at humor. Please note this is a virtual troll move. Rico.

[rico43]

Armando Rivero released. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

[Horsehide Harry]

BOGUS ... Worthless attempt at humor. Please note this is a virtual troll move. Rico.

Thought the tongue in cheek was obvious. But glad you noticed after a week. :roll:

[blueagleace1]

Armando Rivero released. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Was he released or re-assigned to Gwinnett?

[Chico]

AA doesn't have a 40 man roster crunch to walk in to. We're sitting at 36 and we have 2 to 4 guys to protect in Dpete, TD, Dirks, and Webb.

IMO Santana, Adonis, and Luke Jackson can all be gone ASAP creating 3 more roster spots.

[dak]

Braves have until 8 PM tonight to set their 40-man for the Rule 5 draft. Sounds like Ricardo Sanchez needs to be protected. I'm hoping they protect Demeritte too. On the fence on some other like Dustin Peterson, Pike, and a couple of the relief prospects.

[zbhargrove]

Sounds like it's Sanchez, Demeritte and Peterson

EDIT: sorry that was just Twitter speculation

[CJ9]

I'm a Caleb Dirks fan. I bet someone will take him from us.

[dak]

Welp, AA bring some surprises early.

932782394146545670

[Enscheff]

List of players the Braves lost in the R5 draft recently:

2016:
Brian Moran
Zack Bird
Fernando Miranda

2015:
Mitchell Lambson

2014:
JR Graham

All of them are fungible pitchers.

I think it’s safe to assume there isn’t much to worry about with the upcoming R5 draft.

[dak]

Like the Grant Dayton move. Had TJ late last Summer, but high upside RP to stash.

[nsacpi]

McCreery over Dustin Peterson...dont get that one

[rico43]

Like the Grant Dayton move. Had TJ late last Summer, but high upside RP to stash.

Downside is that Dayton is 29. Upside is that he's a Southern boy out of Tim Hudson country (Madison, Ala, by way of Auburn). He is a lefty.

[rico43]

McCreery over Dustin Peterson...dont get that one

Been getting a vibe that the Braves feel the injuries have taken their toll on his game. Remember, he was in the bus crash in addition to some on-field injuries.

[Enscheff]

McCreery over Dustin Peterson...dont get that one

Odd because I was told DPete was going to be an everyday LFer for the Braves. I suppose that spot goes to Riley now?

[Southcack77]

Been getting a vibe that the Braves feel the injuries have taken their toll on his game. Remember, he was in the bus crash in addition to some on-field injuries.

It's pretty well established that hamate breaks tend to suppress power, I thought.

Who do I have to to choose between for the last spot?

[sturg33]

Odd because I was told DPete was going to be an everyday LFer for the Braves. I suppose that spot goes to Riley now?

I believe a certain poster already had him penciled in as a 2WAR player

[nsacpi]

It's pretty well established that hamate breaks tend to suppress power, I thought.

Who do I have to to choose between for the last spot?

I think it's an injury that takes a while to fully recover from...i think with Peterson you have to give more weight to his 2016 season in AA

[TheBravos]

DPete needs another full healthy year. That’s like giving up on Oz last year when he was slow to recover. I really hate to give up on TD also at this point. Both of these guys will be GONE if unprotected and chances are probably one will turn out to be a good player.

[thewupk]

DPete needs another full healthy year. That’s like giving up on Oz last year when he was slow to recover. I really hate to give up on TD also at this point. Both of these guys will be GONE if unprotected and chances are probably one will turn out to be a good player.

It's highly unlikely either will be a good player.

[TheBravos]

DPete pre-injury was looking good. TD is a long shot, but still one I would like to hang on to over 90 pitchers.

[CyYoung31]

DPete needs another full healthy year. That’s like giving up on Oz last year when he was slow to recover. I really hate to give up on TD also at this point. Both of these guys will be GONE if unprotected and chances are probably one will turn out to be a good player.

It’s nothing like giving up on Ozzie. One is a superstar caliber talent, the other is not.

[Southcack77]

DPete needs another full healthy year. That’s like giving up on Oz last year when he was slow to recover. I really hate to give up on TD also at this point. Both of these guys will be GONE if unprotected and chances are probably one will turn out to be a good player.

I don't really see how a team carries Demeritte on their major league roster all season. Can't make contact in the minors. Think its highly unlikely he gets picked.

Don't know about Peterson. You could theoretically carry him as a fourth or fifth OF if you were taking flyers. Try him out and send him back if you didn't like him. I don't think Peterson ends up being any kind of star, but thought he might be useful.

Guess the Braves were not ready to give up on Wisler, Blair, Jace Peterson.

[TheBravos]

It’s nothing like giving up on Ozzie. One is a superstar caliber talent, the other is not.

Not comparing the players talent wise. Just saying he had a injury that takes a long time to heal. He was ready to “probably” make the team before his injury. I think DPete will end up being a average league starter to maybe above average. Someone will snag him.

[CyYoung31]

Not comparing the players talent wise. Just saying he had a injury that takes a long time to heal. He was ready to “probably” make the team before his injury. I think DPete will end up being a average league starter to maybe above average. Someone will snag him.

Players like Peterson are a dime a dozen.

[CyYoung31]

Braves acquire Josh Ravin from the Dodgers for cash.

I don’t know who that is.

[Jaw]

I have no idea if Dustin Peterson will turn out to be any good, but I've seen enough of Jace Peterson to know that I would rather give Dustin a shot than keep Jace.

I like that AA was aggressive after two LAD guys he apparently likes.

[clvclv]

I don't really see how a team carries Demeritte on their major league roster all season. Can't make contact in the minors. Think its highly unlikely he gets picked.

Don't know about Peterson. You could theoretically carry him as a fourth or fifth OF if you were taking flyers. Try him out and send him back if you didn't like him. I don't think Peterson ends up being any kind of star, but thought he might be useful.

Guess the Braves were not ready to give up on Wisler, Blair, Jace Peterson.

Given how good he is defensively, I don't see how anyone would expect him NOT to be taken by someone - particularly other rebuilding organizations. If you're someone like the Reds, Padres, Marlins, etc., picking up a bat with that potential upside IF he ever learns to make contact for nothing is a no-brainer.

Demeritte's ceiling is much higher than Peterson's, and he can play enough defense as a super-sub right now on a rebuilding team to make it worth carrying him and giving him another year to work with your Hitting Coach to make it worth the gamble.

JMO, but there's a lot more chance that someone would try to steal Demeritte than there is someone's going to scoop Peterson up. I'm not a huge Wisler or Blair guy by any means, but I'd rather have them around to help stave off the temptation to rush Soroka, Allard, or Wright in case of injury (rushed more than they're already being rushed, that is).

[clvclv]

Braves acquire Josh Ravin from the Dodgers for cash.

I don’t know who that is.

Wonder if Ravin and Dayton don't just take the place of Hursh and Cabrera.

[nsacpi]

Looks like both Dayton and Ravin are out of options.

[nsacpi]

I wonder if we still acquire a major league reliever after picking up Dayton and Ravin.

[Enscheff]

I wonder if we still acquire a major league reliever after picking up Dayton and Ravin.

The Braves promised to add 1-2 BP arms.

Mission accomplished.

[nsacpi]

Dayton, Ravin, Ramirez and Cabrera are out of options. I believe Akeel Morris is also out of options. And I don't think Winkler can be sent to the minors yet without being offered back to the Rockies.

[Horsehide Harry]

No reason to concern yourselves about the Braves 40 man....

Bringing up guys who didn't need to go on the 40 man during a losing season will have no effect on the ability to make moves in the offseason without concern for losing someone they don't want to lose....

Besides, the masses want to see the future today, even if it's half baked...
:roll:

[Chico]

This is interesting for sure. I understand protecting McReery and Sanchez, but AA is saying he doesn’t really care about Dpete or Demeritte. He may be looking at the fact that mostly pitchers are picked in the Rule 5 draft since they can be stashed in the pen. But, to risk losing those guys and keeping guys like Luke Jackson and Adonis is crazy.

I’m guessing he doesn’t think much of Caleb Dirks either since the Dodgers traded him back to Atlanta and now he is left unprotected.

He’s going to have his own opinions based off his analytics and theories, so we may see a lot of eyebrow raising moves.

[zbhargrove]

I was also wondering about DPete and TD, but JJ Cooper says its unlikely either will get drafted... he's usually spot on with his Rule 5 projections so we will see. I'm with you about not understanding why Adonis is still on the roster.... Luke Jackson I can see because he has the impressive raw stuff and has shown flashes of being a real useful BP piece.

[nsacpi]

My guess is Dave Peterson not Dustin is the player we are most likely to lose in the Rule 5.

[clvclv]

I was also wondering about DPete and TD, but JJ Cooper says its unlikely either will get drafted... he's usually spot on with his Rule 5 projections so we will see. I'm with you about not understanding why Adonis is still on the roster.... Luke Jackson I can see because he has the impressive raw stuff and has shown flashes of being a real useful BP piece.

Still has an option left, and he's lighting it up again in winter ball.

While he is more or less a wasted spot, he's more "ready" than Peterson or Demeritte - can be tucked away in Gwinnett for one more season in the event Kemp, Adams, and/or Camargo happen to get traded. Not ideal obviously, but he could platoon with Ruiz to buy more time for Riley, and could platoon with Adams in LF if Kemp were traded to buy more time for Peterson to bounce back (in the event he's not picked).

[zbhargrove]

Still has an option left, and he's lighting it up again in winter ball.

While he is more or less a wasted spot, he's more "ready" than Peterson or Demeritte - can be tucked away in Gwinnett for one more season in the event Kemp, Adams, and/or Camargo happen to get traded. Not ideal obviously, but he could platoon with Ruiz to buy more time for Riley, and could platoon with Adams in LF if Kemp were traded to buy more time for Peterson to bounce back (in the event he's not picked).

I understand he still has an option... that doesn't make it a good decision. We've seen enough of him at the MLB level in his mid 30s.

[Chico]

Still has an option left, and he's lighting it up again in winter ball.

While he is more or less a wasted spot, he's more "ready" than Peterson or Demeritte - can be tucked away in Gwinnett for one more season in the event Kemp, Adams, and/or Camargo happen to get traded. Not ideal obviously, but he could platoon with Ruiz to buy more time for Riley, and could platoon with Adams in LF if Kemp were traded to buy more time for Peterson to bounce back (in the event he's not picked).

Roster Resource is showing Adonis has an option left and in interestingly enough Akeel Morris as well. I didn't think he has an option left. If so that's great to hear. My AAA projected pen would start off wih Morris, Lindgren and Brothers

I'm still over Adonis, but I can understand it a little more if he has an option left. I can't see any way he's on the 25 man roster opening day. I'd rather just move on

[rico43]

In the minors, Ravin hinted at having late inning stuff much of his minor league career (Reds and Dodgers) and has averaged a strikeout per inning over his career. Another guy who turns 30 this season.

[50PoundHead]

Problem with Peterson is that he's basically a one-position guy who now has questions about his hitting (at least hitting for power). Kind of a tweener. If he could play CF, I could see another team drafting him. That not being the case, I doubt anyone does. I still think he may have a big league future, but it would be part of a LF platoon. Demeritte is no surprise to me. Someone might take him because he can play two positions, but I just think there are too many questions about contact. I'm a bit surprised that McCreery was put on the roster. He's big and projectible, but he's a light year away from the bigs. Terrible control numbers.

[Chico]

Problem with Peterson is that he's basically a one-position guy who now has questions about his hitting (at least hitting for power). Kind of a tweener. If he could play CF, I could see another team drafting him. That not being the case, I doubt anyone does. I still think he may have a big league future, but it would be part of a LF platoon. Demeritte is no surprise to me. Someone might take him because he can play two positions, but I just think there are too many questions about contact. I'm a bit surprised that McCreery was put on the roster. He's big and projectible, but he's a light year away from the bigs. Terrible control numbers.

Mcreery does have some control problems, but he does have the high K rate as well as a 60-70% GB rate and he's only given up 1 HR in 132 innings. If Lewellyn can get his walk rate down he could be an elite arm out of the pen with those K's and ground balls.

[50PoundHead]

Mcreery does have some control problems, but he does have the high K rate as well as a 60-70% GB rate and he's only given up 1 HR in 132 innings. If Lewellyn can get his walk rate down he could be an elite arm out of the pen with those K's and ground balls.

That's what they are banking on.

[Super]

there is no reason to keep adonis on the 40 man. demeritte would probably keep up with him in WAR on defense alone. and we know adonis stinks.

also over jace peterson completely. i'd rather see what the other peterson has.

[Southcack77]

there is no reason to keep adonis on the 40 man. demeritte would probably keep up with him in WAR on defense alone. and we know adonis stinks.

also over jace peterson completely. i'd rather see what the other peterson has.

Well it’s their decision. Not like they didn’t have plenty of options on the 40 to DFA. This is their judgment rather than any kind of crunch.

[jpx7]

Well it’s their decision. Not like they didn’t have plenty of options on the 40 to DFA. This is their judgment rather than any kind of crunch.

It's fair to question that judgment.

[Southcack77]

It's fair to question that judgment.

It certainly is. I don't quite understand their motivations on protecting a number of these folks beyond the idea that Wisler, Blair, Garcia, and others might have been relatively easy for a team to claim and carry on the roster and they don't think the players they didn't protect are.

Personally, I don't know why some of those guys are still on the roster beyond the new front office might not have had time to assess these kind of things.

[rico43]

Updated 11/23 with Ravin trade, Dayton and McCreery ADDS. l

[clvclv]

Something interesting that occurred to me that no one's mentioned - kinda wonder if the reason Demeritte and Peterson weren't protected was to gauge whether there's enough interest in either to be trade chips. Obviously they don't hold huge value, but other organizations may have seen the same things in them that we did when we initially targeted them - at least enough that that/those organizations might value them highly enough to be more significant secondary pieces than we do.

[Enscheff]

Something interesting that occurred to me that no one's mentioned - kinda wonder if the reason Demeritte and Peterson weren't protected was to gauge whether there's enough interest in either to be trade chips. Obviously they don't hold huge value, but other organizations may have seen the same things in them that we did when we initially targeted them - at least enough that that/those organizations might value them highly enough to be more significant secondary pieces than we do.

The hell?

[mqt]

Something interesting that occurred to me that no one's mentioned - kinda wonder if the reason Demeritte and Peterson weren't protected was to gauge whether there's enough interest in either to be trade chips. Obviously they don't hold huge value, but other organizations may have seen the same things in them that we did when we initially targeted them - at least enough that that/those organizations might value them highly enough to be more significant secondary pieces than we do.

So we see if another team wants to take them for free?

[Enscheff]

So we see if another team wants to take them for free?

Does the XM radio expert think the R5 draft works like waivers?

[Horsehide Harry]

Good thing promoting Albies and Swanson before they needed to be will have no impact this offseason....:roll:

[clvclv]

So we see if another team wants to take them for free?

To see if someone steps up and expresses interest prior to the Rule V Draft.

We're obviously gambling that no one picks either up given the steps back they took - maybe someone that was eyeing a trade that believes in them asks that they be included in a deal before the draft happens.

[Enscheff]

To see if someone steps up and expresses interest prior to the Rule V Draft.

We're obviously gambling that no one picks either up given the steps back they took - maybe someone that was eyeing a trade that believes in them asks that they be included in a deal before the draft happens.

Again...what the hell are you talking about? This is the dumbest idea you’ve ever had, and you’ve suggested MAdams for Odorizzi and Jenkins for Sale.

Edit: I take it back, it isn’t quite as dumb as those other “ideas”. Those are all time great stupids.

[mqt]

To see if someone steps up and expresses interest prior to the Rule V Draft.

We're obviously gambling that no one picks either up given the steps back they took - maybe someone that was eyeing a trade that believes in them asks that they be included in a deal before the draft happens.

I just don't see that as a likely scenario. Even if the FO thinks of those two as trade chips rather than assets for the team, they would still protect the 40 players they deem most important to protect, whether that's due to their assessment of the players' value or their likeliness to be drafted in the Rule V. Not protecting someone in advance of the draft with the intention of trading him puts the team in a bad position in any dealings, because if a team really likes the player, they can just take him in the Rule V. It also puts a deadline on a potential deal before the team could lose them for nothing.

[Deester11]

Seems the posts were cleaned up. That being said, AA can still right the ship with smart moves. I think Peterson is ok. But solidifying a competitive team has to be the goal. Not much changes in the short term, but no more patch work SP'S..time for the youngsters to do it or not.

[clvclv]

I just don't see that as a likely scenario. Even if the FO thinks of those two as trade chips rather than assets for the team, they would still protect the 40 players they deem most important to protect, whether that's due to their assessment of the players' value or their likeliness to be drafted in the Rule V. Not protecting someone in advance of the draft with the intention of trading him puts the team in a bad position in any dealings, because if a team really likes the player, they can just take him in the Rule V. It also puts a deadline on a potential deal before the team could lose them for nothing.

I wouldn't disagree that it's unlikely at all - I was just as surprised that neither was protected as everyone else. I guess I can understand protecting Sanchez' upside over one of them if push came to shove (which it apparently did), but I'd probably have kept Demeritte over Peterson or McCreery once that became the choice since I think he can play enough defense to stick on a rebuilding club's roster as their 25th man - especially since he could conceivably run into 8-10 bombs on mistakes as a pinch-hitter/late-inning defensive replacement.

Just really tough to understand that they're giving up on a 23 year old bat with the potential Demeritte's has for nothing this quickly unless they're convinced the contact issue is completely hopeless - just reminds you of how we got Alex Jackson (whether he ever eventually makes it or not). If we really are going to spend money on the pen (or Folty or Touki get converted at some point), keeping McCreery instead sure doesn't make much sense.

[Enscheff]

It shouldn’t come as a surprise folks who thought TD made Albies expendable and DPete was ever going to be an everyday LFer think they should have been protected.

No team is going to pick those guys and keep them on the MLB team all year. They are safe and will continue to be fungible assets for the Braves.

[Chico]

We're donw to 30 now after JJ traded. We'll be at least at 38 after Adams is gone.

I think we should at least be at 37. I can't imagine AA is going to keep Jace and Santana with both being arbitration eligible and out of options.

[Enscheff]

We're donw to 30 now after JJ traded. We'll be at least at 38 after Adams is gone.

I think we should at least be at 37. I can't imagine AA is going to keep Jace and Santana with both being arbitration eligible and out of options.

The choice between Santana and Jace should be pretty obvious. One is a switch hitter with nearly elite speed and plays excellent OF defense. The other...not so much.

One thing that might be going on is the Braves dumped JJ so they can afford to risk keeping MAdams to trade later. Probably not, but maybe.

[Chico]

The choice between Santana and Jace should be pretty obvious. One is a switch hitter with nearly elite speed and plays excellent OF defense. The other...not so much.

One thing that might be going on is the Braves dumped JJ so they can afford to risk keeping MAdams to trade later. Probably not, but maybe.

I don't thgink we should keep either of them.

That's a possibility on Adams, calling the bluff of people who may want to sign him but not give up a player. I do think it's for a reason. We could have waited it out and seen which teams failed to sign other mid level relievers. The timing of it says there's another move coming.

I guess it could just be he's a no nonsense guy who's clearly identified who has a role and who does not and is acting accordingly so he can focus on filling those spots with players who fit. If that is the case keeping Jace and Luke Jackson on this team right now make no sense to me.

[Enscheff]

I laughed...

Carl
9:53 Matt Adams is available and, presumably, cheap. The Red Sox need power. It seems to me that picking him up is a no-brainer for the Sox. It might mean Hanley gets upset, but who cares?
Jeff Sullivan
9:53 I feel like it's important to understand that Matt Adams isn't very good

[Freshmaker]

Braves non-tender MAdams, Jace and Santana

936764441605140480

[Enscheff]

Braves officially non-tendered MAdams, Jace and Santana.

It’s odd because I was told by no fewer than a dozen posters here that MAdams has increased his trade value since the Braves acquired him. They argued endlessly for it. Any comments from those folks now?

[dak]

Braves non-tender MAdams, Jace and Santana

936764441605140480

Good with all these, though I think I would have preferred to non-tender Sam Freeman too. No regrets on the Braves trading for Adams. Very low cost, and he gave the team a boost. The arbitration system is a little off-kilter when it comes to guys with his skill set. He'll sign for less than his arbitration projection.

[Enscheff]

My comment on Jace from 2015:

“Jace is most likely nothing more than a useful starter while he is cheap, and his usefulness is tied directly to being cheap. As soon as he hits arb he is likely gone with Albies ready to take his place at 2B.“

Someone else called him the next Pedroia. I won’t say who.

[thewupk]

Braves officially non-tendered MAdams, Jace and Santana.

It’s odd because I was told by no fewer than a dozen posters here that MAdams has increased his trade value since the Braves acquired him. They argued endlessly for it. Any comments from those folks now?

There have been several people on here who have constantly not valued players correctly

[Enscheff]

There have been several people on here who have constantly not valued players correctly

Those people also tend to argue vociferously in favor of their ignorant opinions, and are completely uninterested in learning how to properly value players.

[bravesfanMatt]

So jo-gun is now our utility infielder. Does that mean we go for a 3rd Baseman. Or maybe take prado and ozuna.

[thewupk]

Those people also tend to argue vociferously in favor of their ignorant opinions, and are completely uninterested in learning how to properly value players.

It's quite sad. They literally get proven that they are wrong with the way FO's around the league are operating yet are still delusional.

[Enscheff]

It shouldn’t come as a surprise folks who thought TD made Albies expendable and DPete was ever going to be an everyday LFer think they should have been protected.

No team is going to pick those guys and keep them on the MLB team all year. They are safe and will continue to be fungible assets for the Braves.

We can all breathe a sigh of relief...TD and DPete are safe.

Whew!!

[Chico]

With the addition of Anyelo Gomez we're at 38 and still have 2 spots open.

[rico43]

Some number changes and non-roster invitees now included

[clvclv]

Some number changes and non-roster invitees now included

Shane Carle, Ricardo Sanchez, and Chase Whitley???

[rico43]

All changed numbers updated, and all new issued numbers posted.

[rico43]

Moylan added to 40, Cabrera dropped

[nsacpi]

Moylan added to 40, Cabrera dropped

Moylan's return is setting us up for an epic season. Epic!

[rico43]

First cuts of the spring: Hursh, Morris, Wright

[rico43]

Schimpf added, Ravin deleted

[salmagundy]

Allard and Biddle sent to MiL camp

[dak]

This Tuesday is the deadline to release players on non-guaranteed contracts w/ just 30 day termination pay owed. I think that Rex Brothers would be the only possible casualty for ATL. I'm more interested to see who may free up from other teams.

https://legacy.baseballprospectus.com/compensation/cots/important-transaction-dates/

[bravesfanMatt]

This Tuesday is the deadline to release players on non-guaranteed contracts w/ just 30 day termination pay owed. I think that Rex Brothers would be the only possible casualty for ATL. I'm more interested to see who may free up from other teams.

https://legacy.baseballprospectus.com/compensation/cots/important-transaction-dates/

I could see Stewart as a possibility. Do we need 3 cathers on the 40 man roster. We could probably cut him and then offer a minor league contract and the same rate.

[Enscheff]

This seemed like the best place to put this:

"Shane
12:09 Guys like Michael Chavis, Jake Bauers, Austin Riley, Chris Shaw, and DJ peters are ranked so differently, yet I see a similar skillset (offensively). Why is Bauers ranked the so much higher?
Eric A Longenhagen
12:11 Disagree that their skillsets are similar. Bauers has the best contact skills among them by far and the reasons the rest of the guys swing and miss (Chavis: swing violence; Riley: load depth; Shaw: scouts aren't sold on the bat speed; Peters: lever length) are different. And then we could get into their respective defensive profiles which are also all different..."

I talked about how his first movement on load is to point the tip of the bat towards the pitcher, and that could be contributing to his long swing that some have confused with a lack of bat speed. To me, this seems like a fixable issue.

[bravesfanMatt]

This seemed like the best place to put this:

"Shane
12:09 Guys like Michael Chavis, Jake Bauers, Austin Riley, Chris Shaw, and DJ peters are ranked so differently, yet I see a similar skillset (offensively). Why is Bauers ranked the so much higher?
Eric A Longenhagen
12:11 Disagree that their skillsets are similar. Bauers has the best contact skills among them by far and the reasons the rest of the guys swing and miss (Chavis: swing violence; Riley: load depth; Shaw: scouts aren't sold on the bat speed; Peters: lever length) are different. And then we could get into their respective defensive profiles which are also all different..."

I talked about how his first movement on load is to point the tip of the bat towards the pitcher, and that could be contributing to his long swing that some have confused with a lack of bat speed. To me, this seems like a fixable issue.

There was an article recently about Kevin Seitzer saying there are some things he needs to fix but the talent is there. I believe he mentioned hips sliding

[Enscheff]

Crystal ball
4:22 What does the magic crystal ball of predictions have for my boy Johan camargo for 2018?
Steve Adams
4:22 If you're referring to him as "your boy," you probably don't want my predictions for Camargo...
4:23 He had a .364 BABIP and one of the worst hard-contact rates in the league with no semblance of plate discipline or strike zone recognition (34.4 percent chase rate, 4.7 percent walk rate)
4:24 He's at best a utility player, and I'm not even sold on him as a big leaguer. I think his bat is going to crash back to Earth in a massive way this year.

Of 318 hitters with 250+ PAs in 2017, his chase rate ranks #64, and his walk rate ranks #28. Definitely not a good sign.

However, those numbers are very close to Whit Merrifield, Starlin Castro, Paul DeJong, and Wilmer Flores. All 4 of those guys posted above average wRC+ last year. If I remember correctly, I think I used Castro as a Camargo comp earlier this offseason.

I'm not saying that means Camargo will be an above average hitter, but just throwing those numbers out there as if they are a death sentence isn't solid logic.

[Tapate50]

There was an article recently about Kevin Seitzer saying there are some things he needs to fix but the talent is there. I believe he mentioned hips sliding

Please post a link to that article ? That would be a good read

[bravesfanMatt]

Please post a link to that article ? That would be a good read

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.myajc.com/sports/baseball/riley-hits-another-long-homer-braves-power-past-jays/cEMn4DulfMbNwPCrV6QlzM/amp.html

Sorry this is the one.

https://www.myajc.com/sports/baseball/riley-has-work-but-braves-prospect-getting-there/gmzi6ztBxAZEgLbnW7Jh7L/

[Enscheff]

I think Bowman has it pretty much nailed in this article, even though Blair probably doesn’t have the long man job completely secured yet.

https://www.mlb.com/news/braves-projected-2018-roster/c-268615654

[msstate7]

I think Bowman has it pretty much nailed in this article, even though Blair probably doesn’t have the long man job completely secured yet.

https://www.mlb.com/news/braves-projected-2018-roster/c-268615654
You think peterson makes it? Peterson/tucker platoon?

[Enscheff]

You think peterson makes it? Peterson/tucker platoon?

Oh I didn’t notice that. Either DPete or LAdams will make the team as Tucker’s platoon partner. Santana backing up CF allows the Braves to keep a better hitter than LAdams on the bench if they so choose.

I do think Bowman has the overall numbers right tho: 4 SPs, 8 man BP, 5 man bench.

When Newk comes up to be the 5th SP, one of the OFers goes to AAA and they roll with a 4 man bench. When Acuna comes up the whole OF portion of the roster gets shuffled.

I would still like to see the Braves get a RHed hitting corner OF though. Maybe one will get dumped by another team closer to opening day.

[Southcack77]

Fried sent down today so there is another decision out of the way.

[Enscheff]

Fried sent down today so there is another decision out of the way.

When does he emerge as a TOR guy?

[bravesfanMatt]

When does he emerge as a TOR guy?

Did he say which rotation

[Enscheff]

Did he say which rotation

I’ve been outsmarted.

[clvclv]

Really interesting questions when trying to fill out my spreadsheet when setting the MiLB rosters...

1.) Why on earth didn't they cut Chris Stewart loose when they could have done so owing only 30 days' termination pay??? He has never hit at the MLB level, and with Flowers and Suzuki splitting time there's really no need for him in Gwinnett either. Brantly would make sense as your third option if either of our "starters" were to miss significant time since he actually is an offensive threat, and Scivicque is perfectly ready to split time with Brantly in AAA with Jackson beginning to breathe down their necks.

2.) Why pick Anibel up? Even if you tuck him away in Gwinnett he's simply in the way. He's obviously not good enough to start at any point - as of now he'd probably be #11 on the depth chart (Teheran, Folty, Newcomb, McCarthy, Kazmir, Gohara, Sims, Fried, and Soroka and Allard would all be ahead of him, and you'd possibly go to Wisler or Blair for a spot start before using him). He's not going to make the team as a reliever, and I'd much rather see Lindgren, Ravin, Biddle, Clouse, and Morris getting the relief innings in Gwinnett. As of now, you've also potentially got Hursh, Whitley, Pfeifer, and Carle to use in the pen there.

3.) Haven't they seen enough of Schimpf already? DPete is obviously going to need a roster spot moving forward (whether he breaks camp with the big club or not) and you're adding Acuna two weeks in. Adams' last few games will probably keep him around if they decide to have Peterson get everyday ABs in Gwinnett for the time being, but Schimpf really adds nothing at this point. AA's obviously an Ezequiel fan, and Santana's not going anywhere so Schimpf doesn't really fit even if he can be tucked away - especially with Riley getting the ABs there at 3B and Colon having proved worthy of being added to the 40-Man Roster.

Time to get rid of Stewart, Hursh, Schimpf, and at least one (if not two) of Whitley, Brothers, or Carle and replace them with Brantly, Colon, Peterson, Santana, and an open spot for The Manchild. And that's BEFORE seeing who might become available over the next two weeks.

[salmagundy]

So with all of these rosters and suggested changes, I do not see where Anyelo Gomez is mentioned. He is the Rule 5 pick from the Yankees. Not real clear on the Rule 5 draft and keeping the player. Many different ways for him to NOT be kept. The most important is being on the ACTIVE roster for 90 days minimum. If because of injury, the player doesn't fulfill the 90 day active roster because of DL, he remains in rule 5 status the following season.

What are the Braves going to do with Gomez? Keep hjim on the 25 man roster or send him back to Yankees?

[clvclv]

So with all of these rosters and suggested changes, I do not see where Anyelo Gomez is mentioned. He is the Rule 5 pick from the Yankees. Not real clear on the Rule 5 draft and keeping the player. Many different ways for him to NOT be kept. The most important is being on the ACTIVE roster for 90 days minimum. If because of injury, the player doesn't fulfill the 90 day active roster because of DL, he remains in rule 5 status the following season.

What are the Braves going to do with Gomez? Keep hjim on the 25 man roster or send him back to Yankees?

I've got Gomez as a lock to be kept - sure hope the brass does. His upside is undeniable, and if he continues to improve he'd be a cheap replacement for Arodys should they choose to let him walk following next season.

[salmagundy]

You're talking next season. Will he be kept on the 25 roster this year in hopes that he can replace Viz next year?

[clvclv]

You're talking next season. Will he be kept on the 25 roster this year in hopes that he can replace Viz next year?

No reason to let the Yankees have him back - it's not like any of the other bullpen candidates have outpitched him. He had one bad outing when misused (second inning), and he's got as much upside as anyone we've got - possibly including Minter.

If they need to use one of the late-game righties for multiple innings, use Ramirez - he's better equipped to handle that right now.

[clvclv]

Today certainly didn't help Anyelo - wonder what pitches all those 2Bs came on.

[rico43]

Updated as of March 19

[rico43]

Dropped all those pitchers, added Flaherty and Bourjos. Note that Flaherty hit .351 with Phillies this spring. Spent entire MLB career with Orioles, however. Bet Markakis has a good take on him.

Bourjos was a regular for one season with the Angels. That year, he stole 22 bases and led AL in triples (11). But he was 24 then, and turns 31 next weekend.

[MadduxFanII]

DOB reports that Ruiz has been sent to AAA, along with Carrera, Santana and some others.

[MadduxFanII]

I’m not going to get too worked up over this, because it doesn’t matter too much, but I’d definitely prefer giving Ruiz a couple weeks at third in Camargo’s absence to a Flaherty/Culberson platoon, which is really pretty depressing.

[dak]

Biggest thing I'm hoping to see today is that we find a better bullpen arm than Shane Carle.

[Southcack77]

I’m not going to get too worked up over this, because it doesn’t matter too much, but I’d definitely prefer giving Ruiz a couple weeks at third in Camargo’s absence to a Flaherty/Culberson platoon, which is really pretty depressing.

Ruiz doesn’t hit and he’s an inferior defender to both. He hadn’t done anything to justify staying up.

AA said defense matters so not too surprising.

Arguably helping young pitchers get off to best start possible is the best move. But this ranks up there with lane Adams decisions for me as far as importance.

[msstate7]

When is final roster expected?

[dak]

When is final roster expected?

I believe all teams have to submit them to the league office some # of hours before the first MLB game. So in a traditional year it's on a Sunday afternoon before the Sunday night baseball kickoff. This year, I assume that results in a Thursday morning deadline. I suspect we'll wait until the bitter end to see if there is an upgrade available for the Carle or Adams spots.

[Russ2dollas]

I’m not going to get too worked up over this, because it doesn’t matter too much, but I’d definitely prefer giving Ruiz a couple weeks at third in Camargo’s absence to a Flaherty/Culberson platoon, which is really pretty depressing.

i'd agree if Snit would play him.

He has not played well enough to fit Snit's hot hand theories. So he'd just sit on the bench. He needs to play every day. Put up or shut up time for him.

Last year's bench was awful. Historically awful. I'm not sure how this bench is much better unless we have the balls to put Neck on the bench when Acuna comes up.

[salmagundy]

I believe all teams have to submit them to the league office some # of hours before the first MLB game. So in a traditional year it's on a Sunday afternoon before the Sunday night baseball kickoff. This year, I assume that results in a Thursday morning deadline. I suspect we'll wait until the bitter end to see if there is an upgrade available for the Carle or Adams spots.

From DOB--

David O'Brien
@DOBrienAJC
·
BRAVES don't plan to announce roster until tomorrow morning. They're due at 10 a.m. and they plan to use all the time or at least remain flexible to use all the time

Moves made by Braves according to MLBTR

By Jeff Todd | March 28, 2018 at 1:02pm CDT

1:02pm: Atlanta will also keep Chris Stewart as a third catcher, per Robert Murray of Fan Rag (via Twitter). The veteran receiver had signed a non-guaranteed MLB deal over the winter.

9:52am: The Braves have announced a series of roster moves that set up the team’s Opening Day, 25-man unit. Third baseman Rio Ruiz has been optioned while non-roster players including righty Anibal Sanchez, outfielders Ezequiel Carrera and Danny Santana, and infielder Sean Kazmar were reassigned out of MLB camp.

These decisions reflect some shifts in thinking over recent days. It had seemed that Ruiz would open up with a shot at third base due to an injury to Johan Camargo. But the organization ended up snagging Ryan Flaherty, who now is set up to get some run at the hot corner in concert with utilityman Charlie Culberson.

Likewise, Santana long seemed a likely candidate to take a utility role from the bench, but the recent signing of Peter Bourjos seems to have bumped Santana from the immediate plans. As MLB.com’s Mark Bowman suggested earlier today on Twitter, Santana (along with Carrera) can be stashed at Triple-A to begin the season. That’s preferable to boosting either player to the 40-man and perhaps then facing an early call when it comes time to add a fifth starter. Instead, Lane Adams will now likely take an Opening Day job, barring an intervening acquisition, though the out-of-options outfielder could now be vulnerable when the roster pressure arises.

Speaking of that fifth starter’s spot, it seems the expectation remains that Sanchez will ultimately ascend to the rotation. For now, though, he’ll be assigned to Triple-A. If and when he does come up, he’ll need to be added to the 40-man roster.

While this slate of moves allows the Braves to avoid any final decisions — since control rights have been maintained over all the team’s options — that doesn’t mean that some moments of reckoning won’t soon arise. As we discussed in our review of the club’s offseason, this roster seems primed to undergo a fair bit of turnover at the start and over the course of the 2018 season.

[mqt]

Lol at starting Flaherty and Culberson instead of giving Rio a shot.

[Braves1976]

I would pick up Josh Lucas if no one trades for or claims him before hand who was DFA'd by the Cardinals and then either option of DFA Carle. As MLBTR noted: "It’s a bit of a surprise to see Lucas, who generates whiffs and grounders at solid rates, bounced from the 40-man. He is coming off of a spring showing in which he recorded 11 1/3 scoreless innings with a dozen strikeouts while permitting only four base hits and a pair of walks. Lucas briefly reached the majors last year after throwing sixty frames of 3.15 ERA ball, with 10.2 K/9 and 1.8 BB/9, at the Triple-A level."

[Braves1976]

Lol at starting Flaherty and Culberson instead of giving Rio a shot.

Ruiz being dropped was a good move and his striking out his only two AB's in the Futures Game probably sealed that for him. I don't think Flaherty is the answer but he can back-up at positions that Ruiz cannot even play so that is probably part of the reason he is here.

[rico43]

Final roster to be announced Thursday 10 a.m.