A weak bench provides opportunities
The weakest part of the Braves is currently their bench. A strong bench can be key to a deep postseason run.
Take a look at the teams that have recently won the World Series. All of them had guys on their bench that they trusted to play in big moments.
The Braves bench does not inspire too much confidence.
Johan Camargo is arguably the Braves best bench player currently on the 40-man roster. That is worrisome.
So, let us look at a few of the non-roster invites and see if any of them have a shot to make the opening day squad.
Pablo Sandoval
The three-time World Series champion spent time with the Braves last season. He is not the same guy who made a couple All-Star appearances earlier in his career, but he may have a little left in the tank in a bench role.
He could possibly play first or third in a pinch as well. If he can put together a solid spring, he may be able to steal a roster spot at the end of the bench.
Jason Kipnis
The newest signee for the Atlanta Braves will be given an opportunity to make the roster out of camp. The 33-year-old former All-Star spent last season with the Cubs and now looks to find a home in Atlanta.
A career 103 wrc+ and the ability to play a few defensive positions, if necessary, helps Kipnis chances of making the roster. He may not have the most pop in his bat, but the Braves need a left-handed option of the bench, which opens the door for the veteran.
Ehire Adrianza
The 31-year-old, light-hitting, super-utility man comes to Atlanta after spending the last four seasons in Minnesota.
He has the ability to play nearly any position defensively, which obviously provides some value. However, his career 82 wrc+ makes it hard to use him in a pinch-hitting role, meaning he would mostly be a defensive replacement.
Sean Kazmar
One cannot spell Sean Kazmar without AAA, which is where Kazmar has spent the majority of his career. However, he has been with the Atlanta Braves since 2013 so they must like him a little.
It is unlikely he makes the team, but he could play either middle infield positions and if an injury were to happen, and Kazmar has a strong spring, maybe he gets a shot on the bench.
Obviously, the majority of these guys will not see the big leagues coming out of spring training. This is purely a speculation article for guys who could have a small shot at making it to Atlanta.
Most of these options are not great, but they are non-roster invitees. If they were good options, they would probably be on a major league roster already.
There will also be a few possible names the Braves could add near the end of spring training that could make the bench or bullpen.
For the time being, it will be interesting to keep an eye on these non-roster invitees and see if they can force their way onto the big-league roster.