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Atlanta Braves: Ranking the Positional Needs Going into the 2021 MLB Draft

By Matt Melton

SARASOTA, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 20: Cristian Pache #68 of the Atlanta Braves stretches during a team workout at CoolToday Park on February 20, 2020 in Sarasota, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
SARASOTA, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 20: Cristian Pache #68 of the Atlanta Braves stretches during a team workout at CoolToday Park on February 20, 2020 in Sarasota, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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Atlanta Braves
Starting Pitcher Mike Soroka of the Atlanta Braves (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /

5. Catcher

Notable Depth:

  • William Contreras – MLB

  • Alex Jackson – AAA

  • Shea Langeliers – AA

  • Logan Brown – A+

While the Braves will certainly almost take a catcher or two at some point in this draft, you could actually make the argument that this is Atlanta’s least need in the upper rounds. With the future big-league catching duo of Contreras and Langeliers, the Braves talent and depth at the position for the foreseeable future is almost certain.

However, there are a few can’t-miss catchers available in the first round this year, in particular Georgia native Harry Ford. While players such as Ford, who essentially grew-up in the Braves backyard, will be an intriguing option should he fall to Atlanta, the Braves should wait a little in this draft before selecting a backstop.

4. Right-Handed Pitcher

Notable Depth:

  • Mike Soroka – MLB

  • Ian Anderson – MLB

  • Huascar Ynoa – MLB

  • Bryse Wilson – MLB

  • Kyle Wright- AAA

While recent mock drafts have had Atlanta selecting a right-hander in the rirst round, it isn’t quite as big of a need as you’d think. Now, yes, stockpiling arms will always happen through the draft, but this future Braves pitching staff has numerous right-handers headlined by Soroka, Anderson, and more.

When looking at the depth of this group as well, you also have to remember numerous other prospects that could play a role going forward including Jasseel De La Cruz, Freddy Tarnok, Bryce Elder, and more. While the quantity of right-handed arms could always change, the depth this position group has going forward is evident for a rotation that is already young.

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