The offseason isn’t over for Alex Anthopoulos and the Atlanta Braves as they continue to search for ways to improve the team.
As we’ve talked away numerous times here on the site, the bench for the Atlanta Braves is the biggest weakness for this team.
And that’s why Alex Anthopoulos continues to search for some impact bats on the cheap who could provide some production off the bench.
He brought in several outfielders like Phillip Ervin, Guillermo Heredia, and Travis Demeritte as well as infielders Pablo Sandoval, Jason Kipnis, Jake Lamb, and Ryan Goins.
And now it seems he’s looking at free-agent third baseman Maikel Franco.
Braves are in the mix for Maikel Franco. Likely to decide today or tomorrow. O’s, Mets among others known.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) March 12, 2021
Franco is essentially a right-handed version of Lamb — someone who has some upside, power, and can play both corner infield spots.
I certainly would love having both of them come off the bench, the only question is whether not the Braves will want to carry two guys who are limited to corner infield spots.
But having that lefty/righty power combo on the bench would instantly elevate the bench and make it a lot scarier.
Maybe a bench of (insert backup catcher), Lamb, Franco, Ender Inciarte, and Ehire Adrianza could work.
With Ender being banged up you could put Ervin in his place until he’s healthy.
As I mention here, Ender still holds value off the bench as a pinch runner and defensive replacement. But you need someone else who can start in the outfield if needed.
Adrianza can do it, but doesn’t have a ton of experience out there.
The one thing Drew Peeler (@AtlantaGator13) pointed out to me on Twitter is that you could move Riley to left and could insert Franco or Lamb at third if an outfielder gets hurts or needs a day off.
There are certainly options, but I do love the look of that bench with Lamb and Franco.
We’ll see what type of deal Franco gets. I would assume it’s going to be a Major League deal for less $5 million with maybe a team option and buyout for 2022.
Let me know your thoughts on the Braves interest in Franco below.