Braves 2024 Opening Day roster projection 1.0: Atlanta goes with All-Star in rotation
By Eric Cole
Braves Opening Day Projected Bullpen
- Raisel Iglesias
- AJ Minter
- Joe Jimenez
- Pierce Johnson
- Dylan Lee
- Aaron Bummer
- Daysbel Hernandez
- Huascar Ynoa
- Reynaldo Lopez (sorta)
Before anyone gets mad, this bullpen projection is operating under the assumption that Tyler Matzek may need a short rehab stint to start the season to get his legs under him. Matzek himself mentioned that this is a possibility and that is the only reason he didn't make the cut here. Once he returns, you can just slot him in over Dylan Lee.
The Braves' bullpen again looks strong and deep with Raisel Iglesias anchoring things in the ninth inning. Lopez and Ynoa together would provide the Braves with a couple multi-inning options if needed (especially early on) and there is a nice balance of lefties and righties. One area of concern is the lack of guys with minor league options, but most of these guys are pretty well entrenched and Atlanta has enough flexibility to make things work unless the wheels really fall off.
Braves Opening Day Projected Infield
- Sean Murphy/Travis d'Arnaud - C
- Matt Olson - 1B
- Ozzie Albies - 2B
- Orlando Arcia - SS
- Austin Riley - 3B
Probably the most boring part of these projections is the lineup because there is not much at stake with the offense down at Braves camp. The Braves have All-Stars at every position in the infield and barring a catastrophe, there won't be any changes to the group that Atlanta ran out there last season.
There are a couple areas to keep an eye on, though. Travis d'Arnaud's career is winding down and the Braves will need a new backup catcher before too long as a result. Drake Baldwin is probably the early favorite for the role there. Orlando Arcia has exceeded expectations at shortstop even with a tough second half, but he is only guaranteed to be under contract through 2025 (the Braves do hold a club option, though, for an additional year). We may begin to see the Braves' long-term plans start to take shape this spring especially if Arcia shows out and calls to extend him get louder.