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Atlanta Braves: Spring Training Preview

By James Kunkle

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL - FEBRUARY 21: The Atlanta Braves stretch during a spring training workout at Champion Stadium on February 21, 2011 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL - FEBRUARY 21: The Atlanta Braves stretch during a spring training workout at Champion Stadium on February 21, 2011 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /
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Atlanta Braves
LOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 09: Relief pitcher Arodys Vizcaino #38 of the Atlanta Braves points to short stop Dansby Swanson #7 of the Atlanta Braves to celebrate after the last out of the baseball game against Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on June 9, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) /

Bullpen Pieces

This could all change with one signing, but as of now I think A.J. Minter would assuredly be the team’s closer. Unlike some people, I think as long as he is healthy, Arodys Vizcaino should definitely be in the bullpen as well. I also see Jonny Venters, Darren O’Day, and Chad Sobotka being assured a spot coming out of Spring Training.

That leaves at least 3 spots for the bullpen open. Other in house candidates include Dan Winkler, Sam Freeman, Luke Jackson, Shane Carle, Jesse Biddle, and Grant Dayton. The Braves could also look to utilize Max Fried or Luiz Gohara out of the bullpen if they would want too.

Now obviously, I do not have any say on who I would want to keep, but I would not have Sam Freeman or Luke Jackson break camp and head North with the big league club. Braves fan’s haven’t really had a shot to look at Grant Dayton since he was acquired so hopefully he will have the opportunity to pitch this Spring.

Based on history, I would have Winkler, Biddle, Carle, and one of Fried and Gohara start the year off in the pen. That’s just me, though. Realistically, at least one of these pitchers will probably get injured at some point though.

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