Will Smith could bring in a decent prospect
In the article, Will Smith was briefly mentioned as potentially being used to buy a decent prospect. Alan mentioned helping pay some of Smith’s $13 million salary to buy a prospect from a team desperate for a bullpen arm.
This is an interesting strategy.
It is no secret that the Braves farm system is not what it once was. Coming into the season, the Braves farm was ranked 15th overall by MLB. Some prospects graduated, some disappointed, and the effects of the previous regime’s scandal have seen the farm system become thinner than it was in the past.
What level of prospect could the Braves get by agreeing to pay some of Smith’s salary?
Well, they probably will not get a top tier prospect in return. However, if a team were to be desperate enough, they could offer a B-level prospect or two that could add more depth to the minors.
“Buying” a solid prospect or two with Will Smith would be an interesting idea for the Braves. Would a team that cares about every dollar be willing to eat salary for a guy playing for another team to buy a prospect?
I think if they got a prospect they liked in return, the Braves would consider this option.
This could tempt a team like Cincinnati who has a poor bullpen and is also a “mid-market” team in terms of payroll.
If the Braves do not “buy” a prospect with Smith, then maybe they can consider this next strategy.