Atlanta Braves Roster Decisions Loom: Bourn or Swisher, Who Stays?

Bourn is a former speedster and defensive wizard, but has been bit by the injury bug in the worst place for those types: the hamstring.  He’s also 33 and has regressed significantly in his defensive metrics ever since leaving the Braves after the 2012 season, but both DRS and UZR liked his very limited work in left field last season.  DRS was kind to his center field play (6), while UZR was a little sour at -3.8.  No matter how you slice it, you have a guy who is serviceable at all 3 outfield positions that can also give you some bursts of speed, while maybe not much coming from his bat.  He hit just .238/.310/.282 last season, and has never been a significant run producer.

Here are the ZIPS projections for Bourn in 2016:

.246/.307/.326 with 16 stolen bases

So to break it down, here are the pros and cons:

• Can play centerfield
• Can play outfield relatively well
• Can still be somewhat of a speed threat
• Has no power
• Bat is in serious decline
• Is left handed

Next: The Slugger