As the 2023 season ended and preparation for 2024 began, Alex Anthopoulos and the Atlanta Braves had decisions to make regarding left field. Both Kevin Pillar and Eddie Rosario entered free agency. Pillar bounced around even prior to the season but former postseason hero Rosario landed with a division rival in the Washington Nationals.
Eddie Rosario DFA'd by Nationals
On Monday morning, the news broke that Eddie Rosario was being designated for assignment to make way for Nationals top prospect James Wood. Wood was hitting an impressive .353 in Triple-A with 10 home runs and 10 stolen bases in just 52 games. Wood has proved that he deserves this opportunity at the highest level and Eddie Rosario just happened to be the first man out to make room for the 21-year old prospect. With the Nationals surprinsgly only 4 games out of a Wild Card spot and Rosario struggling, they felt this was the best move for their club.
We all remember how impressive the postseason run was for the Braves and for Eddie Rosario specifically in 2021 but he has not been close to the same player in 2024. Through 67 games with the Nationals this season, the 10 year veteran was hitting .183 with 7 home runs and 26 runs batted in.
Could the Braves pursue Rosario?
This move by the Nationals raises a legitimate question for Braves fans: Should we expect a reunion with Eddie Rosario? At this point, it should not be ruled out.
Ever since Ronald Acuna Jr.'s season ending injury, the Atlanta outfield has had struggles. Thankfully, off-season acquisition Jarred Kelenic has stepped up but he could use some help. With the other outfieders on Atlanta's roster being Ramon Laureano, Forrest Wall and severley underperforming Adam Duvall, taking a chance on Eddie Rosario does not sound too bad.
With his numbers through 67 games this season, Rosario would not come close to breaking the bank and perhaps returning to familar territory with such fond memories in 2021 could provide some comfortability that could result in major production.