Predicting How the Atlanta Braves will Fortify the Outfield in 2021
By Seth Carter
Atlanta Braves – George Springer
The Houston Astros lost two very valuable outfielders to free agency after the 2020 season. Veterans George Springer and Michael Brantley are currently fielding offers. Springer is the bigger name of the two and is currently ranked as the third-best free agent at MLBTradeRumors.com, just ahead of Marcell Ozuna.
We can run through the numbers all we want to explain how wonderful of player he has been, but here’s the catch:
"My understanding is George Springer wants about $175 million"@martinonyc with the latest on Springer: pic.twitter.com/xij22C6hFt
— SNY (@SNYtv) January 7, 2021
Heading into his age-31 season, he is reportedly looking for a $175 million contract.
Could Michael Brantley be the Answer?
Michael Brantley has been a model of consistency for a long time. Over the past three seasons he has posted a .309/.368/.484 triple-slash line. He is heading into his age-34 season and is projected to snag a two-year, $28 million contract, according to MLBTradeRumors.com
In fact, they even project the veteran to sign with the Atlanta Braves.
There’s plenty of room for up and coming prospects to work their way through the system in the next couple of years and the team won’t have to make a defensive sacrifice like they would with Ozuna. Brantley posted 15 defensive runs saved over the past two seasons.
It makes too much sense for both sides. The Braves offer a Brantley a chance to contend for a championship.
Brantley offers the Braves productivity right now and won’t require a long-term and potentially dangerous contract, like the Braves try to avoid.
The Atlanta Braves have proven they like to pay up for proven veterans on short-term deals. This could be a match made in baseball heaven.
dark. Next. Now is the Time to Extend Freeman
Even before the Mets acquired Francisco Lindor, upgrading the outfield was a priority, now it is paramount. What move or moves would you like to see Atlanta make?