Atlanta Braves News: The Morning Chop 12/29

Atlanta Dugout

A LOOK AT THE AAA/AA ROTATION CANDIDATES

Tomahawk Take Editor’s Note: Since John Hart took over as President of Baseball Operations, his goal was to improve the rosters of the Braves minor league organizations.  With a trade here and a trade there, he has been able to bolster the roster of each team…though it will probably take more than what he’s been able to accomplish this offseason, it’s a start.  Below is a look at the Mississippi Braves starting pitching staff.

"So here’s a recap of the candidates for Mississippi’s rotation:POTENTIAL RETURNING STARTERS: Jason Hursh, Williams Perez, Greg Ross, Ryan WeberNEW CANDIDATES: Tyrell Jenkins, Ray Marimon, Victor MateoPOTENTIAL MINOR LEAGUE PROMOTIONS: Wes Parsons, Jarrett Miller, Lucas SimsThe numbers are getting better. We’ll see if any prospects can break through and become more serious candidates for the big leagues. But spring training should once again be interesting as a number of pitchers try to make the rotations of the Braves top two affiliates."

Bleacher Report

All 30 MLB Teams’ Updated To-Do List Heading into the New Year

Tomahawk Take Editor’s Note: The Braves were unable to package Chris Johnson nor B.J. Upton into any trade made this offseason – meaning no team sees a positional need with these guys on their rosters.  Could they both have bounce back seasons?  Absolutely, and I think it can happen in 2015.  Be optimistic!  A second need would be that fifth starting pitching spot.  Right now, it looks like David Hale has that spot but it could definitely change.  

"Unable to package Chris Johnson or B.J. Upton along with Justin Upton, the Atlanta Braves would still love to unload at least one of those contracts before the offseason is over.Johnson has a three-year, $23.5 million extension set to take effect this coming season, and after a breakout campaign in 2013, he hit just .263/.292/.361 last year. That being said, the third base market is essentially tapped dry, so they could yet find a taker for the 30-year-old.Upton will be next to impossible to move, as he has three years and $46.35 million remaining on the ill-advised five-year, $72.25 million contract he was given, and he may wind up simply being released a la Dan Uggla."

Social Media Wall