Atlanta Braves News: Morning Chop 12/2 “Chris Is A Turtle”
By Jeff Schafer
Braves facing tricky decisions on J. Upton, Gattis
Tomahawk Take Editor’s Note: Is everyone pleased with John Hart‘s decisions so far since being named Braves President of Baseball Operations? Probably not but think of the tasks he has at hand. The Braves front office are trying to work through some major mistakes and Hart is doing what he feels is right for the Braves in the future. I believe the front office and Hart have a plan and are sticking to that plan. I fully trust these guys to put a competitive squad on the field in 2015.
"With Upton positioned to gain a hefty payday as one of baseball’s top free agents following the 2015 season, and Gattis undoubtedly best fit to serve as a designated hitter for one of the American League clubs that has expressed interest, there would be reason to for the Braves to justify addressing any of their many needs by trading either of these two players."
"As the Braves look toward the future, with the constant reminder that they are working with a weak farm system and limited financial flexibility to address immediate needs, there might be temptation to trade both Upton and Gattis this winter.But the Braves do not seem too keen about blowing up their roster and essentially throwing in the towel on the 2015 season. Such an approach would likely draw outrage from a fan base that the club wants to keep energized as it prepares to market Sun Trust Park’s opening in 2017."
Braves to Astros: You want Gattis? Then also take Upton and his big contract
Tomahawk Take Editor’s Note: Earlier this summer and again in the offseason the Astros were very interested in Braves catcher/outfielder Evan Gattis…Ken Rosenthal is reporting. The Braves pretty much said “OK, but you have to take B.J. Upton as well”. The Astros balked at this and the teams couldn’t come to an agreement. Rosenthal believes trade talks may come back up at the Winter Meetings. Fowler is a fine center fielder with great range and speed. He could bat leadoff for the Braves and excel in the outfield.
"The talks were wide-ranging, but the Braves asked for center fielder Dexter Fowler and a pitching prospect at one point and also inquired about catcher Carlos Corporan, sources said.Fowler, 28, was a logical target for the Braves — he is from Atlanta and would have replaced Upton in center field. The Braves also are seeking young pitching and would like to add a veteran catcher such as Corporan to pair with Christian Bethancourt.The Astros, however, balked at adding $39 million in payroll — the difference between Upton’s remaining $46.35 million and Fowler’s $7.35 million — and the teams never agreed on the second player going to the Braves."
SOCIAL MEDIA AWARDS
Tomahawk Take Editor’s Note: Jump over to MLB.com and vote for Freddie Freeman for the “Best Selfie” award. Freeman took this selfie after having his wisdom teeth removed earlier this year. Show him your support, it takes less than two minutes to vote.
"Voting is open for the second annual MLB Network Social Media Awards! Who do you think should win? View the categories (Best Selfie, Favorite Follow and more), check out the nominees and vote via Twitter and Facebook by December 7. Then, tune in to MLB Network on Sunday, Dec. 14 at 8 p.m. ET to find out the #winners."
Youtube
Tomahawk Take Editor’s Note: For your humor on a Tuesday morning. I stumbled upon this interview with Freddie Freeman and
Chris Johnsonthat made me laugh. Yes, it’s from May of 2013 but I didn’t remember it so I figured I’d say it with our fan base. Hope it makes you laugh!