With Yasmani Grandal going to White Sox, Braves should go after James McCann

Yasmani Grandal, the prized catcher of the free agent market, has signed with the Chicago White Sox. With Grandal off the board, the Atlatnta Braves should look to a familiar name behind the plate.

The Atlanta Braves have a half of a hole to fill at the catcher position this offseason. The biggest prize on the market was Yasmani Grandal, and he is now accounted for.

The White Sox signed Grandal to a four-year, $73 million deal.

While it was not likely that the Braves made a bid for his services, it was possible. Now that he is off of the table, the Braves can focus on the leftovers.

While I covered the potential fits at catcher already, after the recent turn of events there may be a new option with feasibility.

McCann at Catcher in 2020

The Braves need to make a move for McCann…James McCann. First of all, no, he is not Brian’s brother. However, he did resemble the legendary (can I call him that?) Braves’ catcher last season in his productivity.

James McCann was a first time All-Star last season for the Sox. He posted a .273/.328/.460 batting line with 18 HR, 60 RBI, 62 R, and a WAR of 3.8. He accounted for five defensive runs saved in Chicago.

The indication was James McCann had endeared himself to a long-term extension with the Sox, until Grandal came along.

James McCann is entering the final year of his contract. He is projected to make $4.9 million in arbitration, according to our friends at MLBTradeRumors.com.

I’m sure the White Sox would be open to entertaining trade offers for the All-Star catcher on the last year of his contract. Honestly, he could be acquired for a very reasonable price at this stage.

McCann would be a perfect addition to team with Flowers in 2020.

He is very affordable, especially compared to the free agent options. His price can’t be anything the Braves can’t afford with our deep farm system.

Plus, there’s something about that name that just…my gut says he’ll be a good fit.

Somebody needs to tell Alex Anthopoulos that we want to see a McCann behind home plate in 2020. What do you think? What do you think the Braves would have to give up for McCann? Let us know in the comments below!