dak
Well-known member
That's 11 relievers with only 7 spots open, but I would include another lefty in Thomas making that number 12. Plus Kohn would need to be added to the 40-man roster as he's on a minor league deal. While others on the list are out of options so we couldn't just send them to the minors, at least not without them clearing waivers first. Speaking of that, isn't Viz among those out of options now? If so he should be a lock to make the bullpen. The good news is all our lefties besides Russell, and including Thomas, have at least one option remaining. That's if I am correct about Avilan having one left? I think he does anyway (someone correct me if I am wrong). I'm pretty sure the only righties with options remaining are Simmons and Hale (again correct me if I am wrong).
That said, my top 7 from that list would be as follows: Kimbrel, Simmons, Viz, Shreve, Russell, Hale, Kohn. But I know Johnson will get a spot so that would leave out someone from my top 7 (probably either Kohn or one of the three with minor league options left unless Russell is traded). This list also is telling on the need to move at least one of Carpenter or Varvaro. Further, according to Bowman there was some consideration by the Braves about non-tendering Russell (if so that may mean he is going to be moved too).
Regarding options . . . I believe Avilan was optioned in 2012 and 2014 and would have one option year left. Vizcaino had his contract purchased in 8/2011 and was not optioned down that year. He then got hurt and stayed on the major league DL for some time and thus wasn't optioned down for the first time until 2013 by the Cubs when he returned from the DL. Then optioned again I think in 2014, so would have one remaining.