With these “under the radar” signings, the Atlanta Braves could find suitable pieces to help bolster the roster.
Looking ahead to the 2021 season for the Atlanta Braves while in the midst of the offseason could make one think about signing the top names out on the market. Trust me, I know! I would love for the Braves to sign J.T. Realmuto, George Springer, or Trevor Bauer, but the reality of that happening is fleeting as the days go on.
Now, I am not saying the Braves should only focus on going after lower-level free agents instead of focusing on landing a big name target… because the big names should be the priority. These are basically role players if you will.
So, let’s start!
This name should sound familiar! The former Brave entered free agency this offseason as one of the many infielders that serve a multi-position purpose.
While there are other names out there on the market that may bring more noise, La Stella comes off as a guy that is willing to slot in where needed and plays his role as needed on the team.
La Stella played a vital role on the 2020 Oakland A’s after being traded mid-season from the Los Angeles Angels and did not seem to miss a beat with his new team. But alas, he is on the market now.
With a total batting average of .281 and an OPS of .819 in 2020 between the Angels and A’s, La Stella seemed like one of the better guys within the lineups he was placed in (especially on that Angels team).
The Braves don’t really have a hole at any base in the infield, but where they lack is depth at second and third.
I could see La Stella fitting in nicely as an infield replacement. Being that Ozzie Albies was injured for a good part of this past season and Johan Camargo struggling to stay consistent, it would have been nice to have a guy like La Stella to slot in at second base or at third whenever needed.
La Stella as a utility infielder could go a long way in keeping the infield strong as the season progresses.