Atlanta Braves need Roster Flexibility
By Ryan Cothran
Atlanta Braves need Eury Perez and Joey Terdoslavich
The Braves offense is successful due to the platoon advantage. The offense falters when it’s late in the game and their hand is forced to PH Jonny Gomes against a RHP, or hit Todd Cunningham in a pinch because there’s no other option (other than Ciriaco). In my opinion, this cannot happen.
But what about backup SS? Since when do the Braves actually give a day off to Andrelton? Never. If Andrelton gets injured in-game, the Braves have just as good of a backup in Jace Peterson than what Ciriaco can provide. It’s one game…not even 1 game, a partial game. Fred and I have discussed this issue and he stated, in essence, that “it’s just what’s always been done”, not necessarily providing his own opinion, but general commonalities of MLB teams. It is my opinion that this team’s build is far from common and shouldn’t approach the roster in that way. There’s no need to have a backup SS on the bench. Remember… 3 innings.
Joey Terdoslavich becomes the SH bench option ultimate compliment to the likes of Chris Johnson and Jonny Gomes. Joey can also spot-start in the corner OF positions and 1b, spelling Nick Markakis, Freddie Freeman, and Kelly Johnson.
Eury Perez becomes the backup CFer/pinch runner/late inning defensive substitute. Due to his speed, he could be a game changer when the Braves need a run, and when do the Braves not need a run these days?
Joey T takes the important at-bats away from Cunningham, Eury takes the defensive innings and pinch running opportunities. Seems like an easy decision, right? It actually is!