Atlanta Braves: 3 sleeper candidates to make the roster
Most of the 26-man roster for the Atlanta Braves is set, but there are still a few question marks. Could some sleeper candidates fill those spots?
Pitchers and catchers for the Atlanta Braves have already reported, with the first game set to take place this weekend.
There really aren’t many questions for the two-time defending NL East champions, but there are some key positions where some under the radar players could make the roster.
It can be assumed that the following players are most likely to make the big league club:
*Note: this does not include Cole Hamels, who will likely begin the season on the injured list
- Catchers (2): Travis d’Arnaud, Tyler Flowers
- Infielders (5): Freddie Freeman, Ozzie Albies, Dansby Swanson, Johan Camargo, Adeiny Hechavarria,
- Outfielders (4): Marcell Ozuna, Ender Inciarte, Ronald Acuna, and Nick Markakis
- Starting Pitchers (4): Mike Soroka, Max Fried, Mike Foltynewicz, and Sean Newcomb
- Relief Pitchers (8): Will Smith, Mark Melancon, Shane Greene, Chris Martin, Darren O’Day, Jacob Webb, and Luke Jackson
Obviously there was one glaring omission from this roster – that was Adam Duvall. More on that on the next page.
Charlie Culberson and Yangervis Solarte will have a chance to earn a backup infield spot.
The bullpen has an option slot, as well as the rotation and the possibilities for each
With so much talent close to the big leagues, perhaps a top prospect or two could have a strong spring and find themselves on the roster?
It happened last year with Kyle Wright, but that was kind of out necessity due to injuries.
On the following slides, three sleeper candidates have been identified as having a chance to make the big league roster after camp breaks later next month.