Atlanta Braves — Outfield /DH/Bench
Left Field: Adam Duvall
Since coming back from AAA last season, Duvall has been a great addition to the Braves roster. A solid bat, a solid glove, and one year left of service time means we will see Adam Duvall back in Atlanta in 2021.
Center Field: Cristian Pache
The top prospect in Atlanta’s talented farm system will be given the reigns to patrol center field next season, especially with Ender being traded to Seattle in this scenario. Pache is considered a gold glove level defender by several scouts now. If that’s the case, the Braves will let him play great defense and bat 9th similar to how Washington is playing Victor Robles.
Right Field: Ronald Acuna
No surprise here. El Abusador will be patrolling right and batting at the top of the order for Atlanta for years to come. Here’s to a 40/40 season in 2021!
Designated Hitter: Nick Markakis
Is it sexy? No. Yet, you can do a lot worse than Nick Markakis and the Braves seem to love him. It makes sense for the Braves to bring back Markakis for another short term deal, plus, he can fill in as a 4th outfielder when someone needs a day off.
Bench: Johan Camargo, William Contreras, Adeiny Hechavarria, and Tommy La Stella
With the DH staying in the NL, there won’t be many pinch-hit opportunities so the Braves load up on cheap defensive options.
The Tyler Flowers era ends as William Contreras takes over as the second catcher. Alex Jackson should get consideration for this position as well, but there’s also the possibility he’s included in trade talks this offseason.
Johan Camargo and Adeiny Hechavarria both provide great defense off the bench and can easily step in to give someone a breather.
Tommy La Stella would be an interesting option as he provides a decent bat and can play a few positions if necessary. Guys like Freddy Galvis, CJ Cron, Justin Smoak, and others could also be cheap options for that final bench spot.
This collection of position players would give the Braves a deep lineup that would provide pitcher’s nightmares before facing Atlanta.