Atlanta Braves Morning Chop: Dropping the Mic
Braves Considering Kelly Johnson
JEFF TODD / MLBTRADERUMORS.COM
"The Braves are among the organizations considering a move for free-agent infielder/outfielder Kelly Johnson, according to Jon Heyman of Fan Rag (via Twitter). At this stage, though, Johnson is holding out for a MLB roster spot, per the report. Presumably, Atlanta isn’t currently willing to clear 40-man space and guarantee cash to Johnson, who turns 35 tomorrow. Whether any organization ultimately will do so remains to be seen. On the one hand, an injury could suddenly make Johnson seem quite appealing; on the other, clubs may be less inclined to promise a MLB job as camp goes on. In the Braves’ case, the presence of Jace Peterson — another left-handed-hitting infielder who could see time at second and third — complicates matters. While both could theoretically coexist on the same roster, it’s perhaps more likely that they’d end up battling for a single job."
Ed. notes – I’d say “stop me if you’ve heard this before”, except that I know you have.
Funny how the piece above says ‘the Braves are interested’ while then proceeding to list all of the reasons why they wouldn’t be interested.
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The Take from here? Another reunion is about as likely as anything else… for reasons related to his own personal comfort level and familiarity with everyone involved.
The timing is the interesting part. Todd mentions the problem with the Braves’ 40-man roster. That will continue to be an issue until teams can start using the Disabled List again.
Ah, but that has already happened, you see. On Valentine’s Day, Jacob Lindgren was put onto the 60-day DL, which leaves the 40-man list at 39 (counted) names.
So there is a major league slot available… if the Braves want to use that for Johnson.
Or do they want to keep that open for some other option? That’s a question.