Braves 2021 Player Previews: Will Chris Martin Be the Go-To Guy in the Bullpen?

As of now, we are roughly three or so weeks from Spring Training officially starting and neither Shane Greene nor Mark Melancon has re-signed with the Braves, leaving a significant hole in the bullpen and questions that need to be answered such as:

• Who will take the closer role?
• How do we expect the bullpen to be as dominant?

There’s no telling what Alex Anthopoulos is thinking when it comes to the bullpen and whether or not he intends for both pitchers to return, but the fact of the matter is the bullpen, as of right now, has a completely different look.

Will it be disappointing if neither Greene nor Melancon returns? Yes, massively disappointing. But if they fail to re-sign, could it mean a battle for the closer role between Martin and Smith?

We all know Smith signed on to take on that role as his contract progressed, but his first season with the Braves left much to be desired while his fellow relief pitchers continued to show off their ability to be shut down arms.

Do I expect Martin to be given the closer role off the bat? No, this is something that I could see happening as the season progresses if one or two other options do not pan out as expected similar to the Greene and Melancon situation in the 2019 season.

I do believe Chris Martin is capable of being that guy if needed, as he has shown the ability to come in with a job to do and completely shut his opponents down.

Of course, Smith could have a bounce-back year and take that role back for himself which would mean Martin would take the sole, set up man role as a corresponding move or Greene/Melancon could be re-signed to take the role leading to a battle for set up man between Martin and Smith.

It is not unreasonable to think one way or the other. It is just a matter of time before we find out what the Braves’ plan truly is when it comes to the bullpen.