Atlanta Braves News: The Morning Chop
By Jeff Schafer
Braves Feigl, Benson in mix to make roster
Tomahawk Take Editor’s Note: Fredi Gonzalez told the media on Sunday that relief pitcher Brady Feigl and outfielder Joe Benson have a real chance to break Braves camp with the big-league team. Feigl’s chances increase when the Braves decided to part ways with lefty James Russell on Sunday morning. This opened the door for the lefty who has never pitched above Single-A ball. Benson is described as bringing “energy and passion” to the team but hasn’t played that much this spring. He’s only seen limited action on the field and at the plate as he’s 1-5 with three walks.
"The Braves assigned Feigl to minor-league camp two weeks ago but since then have brought him back to make three Grapefruit League appearances. Feigl allowed no runs in those outings while picking up a pair of saves and now has a 1.35 ERA with seven hits allowed and no walks in 6 2/3 innings this spring.Gonzalez said Feigl is “in the mix” to win a bullpen job even though he hasn’t pitched above high Single-A and was sent to minor-league camp.“We send them down for whatever reason,” Gonzalez said. “And then the (Braves coaches) are going, ‘Wait a second, I remember Feigl, when he was here, he pitched better than the guy who is here. Let’s bring him (back).’”"
Markakis looks good in return from surgery
Tomahawk Take Editor’s Note: Nick Markakis and the Braves are hoping he’ll be on the field on Opening Day and his path continues to look like he’ll be able to. He’s progressed without a timeline and at his and the doctors pace. Markakis has played in four games so far with the Braves, with 13 at-bats. He’s also had the chance to get some minor league at-bats in. To have him in the lineup on Opening Day will have a magnitude on the Braves success right out of the gate.
"“He’s right on schedule,” president of baseball operations John Hart said.“It is [impressive],” manager Fredi Gonzalez said after Markakis’ first game. “But you know the animal and you know he’s going to be ready and prepared. Now, it’s just a matter of getting him some at-bats.” The long-time Baltimore Orioles fan favorite signed a four-year deal worth $44 million as a free agent to replace the traded Jason Heyward, but had fusion surgery on a disk in his neck shortly afterwards."
Bobby Cox to Throw out First Pitch
Tomahawk Take Editor’s Note: It’s great to see that the Braves organization still finds ways to involve former coach Bobby Cox. Whether you’re a Braves fan or not, you respect the man and I believe the Atlanta Braves organization realizes this. On Opening Night for the Rome Braves, Cox will throw out the ceremonial first pitch to get the season kicked off.
"Legendary Atlanta Braves manager and Baseball Hall of Fame member Bobby Cox will throw out the ceremonial first pitch on Opening Night April 9th the Rome Braves announce today.In 2011, Cox was inducted into the Atlanta Braves Hall of Fame and his number six jersey was retired. He was unanimously elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame and was inducted on July 27, 2014. Cox has been named Manager of the Year four times and is one of only four managers to have won the award in both the American and National League. He is also the only person to have won the award in consecutive years. Cox has also been named Manager of the Year by The Sporting News eight times."