Misjudging Luke Jackson – Atlanta Braves’ most underrated players
By Seth Carter
This off-season, the Braves signed Will Smith – who is found hovering around Jackson’s name in several of the cited statistics – to a three-year, $40 million deal. Mark Melancon has one more year with the Braves after a stellar run as the closer in 2019.
Shane Greene will return, assuming his feelings aren’t too hurt after his arbitration hearing is over. Greene was an All-Star closer with the Tigers last season until the Braves traded for him and demoted him after a couple of outings.
Jacob Webb finished the season with a 1.39 ERA under the tutelage of former Angels’ closer, Troy Percival. Darren O’Day is back on a one-year deal after years as one of the elite relievers in the game.
The Atlanta Braves have pieced together what could be the best bullpen in all of baseball. When you take a look at the numbers and realize just how valuable Luke Jackson was in 2019… and add him to the list of elite relievers Alex Anthopoulos has assembled, it’s a great luxury.
This upcoming season a new rule will be in effect in which relievers will have to face at least three batters. I have a feeling we will be very thankful for the potential murderer’s row of relievers we have lined up this season.
Jackson enters the 2020 season shoulder to shoulder with Will Smith, Mark Melancon, Shane Greene and a host of other top-notch relievers. Don’t let the big names and salaries over-shadow the elite-level pitcher we have in Luke Jackson.
Next. Could Andrelton Simmons return to the Braves in 2021?. dark
How do you feel about Luke Jackson? let us know in the comments below!