Braves add that utility guy they’ve been looking for
The blockbuster trade — yeah, sure we’ll call it a blockbuster — this past weekend between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Atlanta Braves cause quite a stir over the past few days. As we’re all trying to catch up and figure out what it all means on paper, the players that this effected are trying to figure out their next steps.
The Braves sent outfielder Matt Kemp to the Dodgers for Adrian Gonzalez, Brandon McCarthy, Scott Kazmir, Charlie Culberson and cash considerations. Gonzalez was immediately DFA’d by the Braves and is now a free agent. He can sign with any team for the league minimum.
McCarthy is a solid addition for the Braves as he could be plugged into the rotation as the veteran pitcher we were looking for. He also has an option for the 2019 season if the Braves want him back.
Kazmir didn’t pitch in 2017 because of a hip injury, but he’s come back strong before after sitting out a full season. The left-handed pitcher is still only 33-years-old, he can definitely still contribute either out of the pen or eventually as a starting pitcher if injuries or other trades happen.
But the guy I’m liking the most from this trade is Charlie Culberson. The 28-year-old can play many different positions — in the minors he played shortstop, second base, third base, first base, center field, left field, and right field. Yup, he’s versatile and I think Braves new GM Alex Anthopoulos and manager Brian Snitker will enjoy his range.
Culberson is a good club house guy as well and did you watch any baseball in October last year? The dude has a bright spot for big games.
He’s an exciting player both offensively and defensively. He’ll be able to step in when guys need rest or an injury occurs. I’m looking forward to Culberson in a Braves uniform.
Culberson said his farewell and welcome on twitter yesterday…
"“To the Dodgers Front Office, coaches, teammates, and the Great Fans, my family and I thank you ALL for the last two years. You guys made mus feel like family and we will always be grateful for that. So many wonderful memories and relationships were made along the way. The Los Angeles Dodgers are a class act and anyone is lucky to play for them.Bittersweet to be traded to a team I grew up watching as a little kid. I will always work hard and always have fun playing a game that I love. Here is to our next journey and playing for the Braves! #ChopOn”"
— Charlie Culberson (@cculberson8) December 17, 2017
Next: Atlanta Braves just added future flexibility
In Culberson’s 11 seasons in the minor leagues, he holds a .266 batting average with 119 stolen bases, 67 homers, 37 triples and 185 doubles.
I will say this, Culberson’s addition does not mean Dansby Swanson’s position is in trouble. He’s not coming to Atlanta to replace him. Many folks are giving Swanson the cold shoulder because of last seasons struggles, but I’m expecting a bounce back season for the 23-year-old. Yes, please remember he’s only 23.