No. 2 Atlanta Braves 2022 Free Agent: Eddie Rosario
Eddie Rosario was acquired at the trade deadline s a part of the answer to the question “how do you replace Ronald Acuna Jr.?”
Alex Anthopoulos decided the answer was to bring in a whole new outfield. A part of the overhaul was sending Pablo Sandoval to the Indians for the injured Eddie Rosario. The trade for Rosario was an investment in our future winnings.
The moves created a buzz and excitement in Atlanta. Not only was the team not waving the white flag, but they were also blowing their noses in it and wiping… the residue that may have sprayed on their shirts.
The moves for Soler, Pederson, and Duvall signaled immediate improvements. The move for Rosario made a statement.
The statement? We know we’ll be winning when he comes back.
Rosario played for 33 vital games for the Braves as they torched a path through the sprawling field of weeds that was the NL East in 2021. Rosario and the Braves cleared the field with propane-powered blow torches as the Mets and Phillies were sent fleeing like mice hiding in the brush. They ran in terror as their little rodent bodies caught fire and their playoff hopes fizzled in our reign of terror.
During those games, Rosario cemented his place in Braves history as one of the all-time great trade deadline acquisitions.
He slashed .330/.573/.903 for the club and has since become a Braves postseason legend, earning the NLCS MVP!
Despite his free-swinging ways, Rosario took the leadoff spot when Soler went down and his hot bat helped lead the Braves to the NL East Title and beyond.
The trade certainly sky-rocketed his value heading into free agency. After this memorable run, Atlanta fans will be clamoring for a return