The Braves have significant funds available to upgrade at catcher, right field, the bullpen and perhaps a frontline starting pitcher, but how much of their resources will they spend on the bench?
When comparing the rosters of the Dodgers and Atlanta Braves in the NLDS, one of the most glaring differences between the two teams was the depth L.A. had on its bench.
The Dodgers could mix and match their lineup to their advantage depending on the pitching matchup.
While it’s nice to dream about adding stars like Bryce Harper or Jacob deGrom, adding pieces to an extremely thin bench perhaps might be as crucial.
As things stand, the Braves’ bench consists of Tyler Flowers and Charlie Culberson. Adam Duvall is a non-tender candidate, but there is also a chance he could be back.
If Austin Riley emerges as an everyday third basemen next year, then Johan Camargo or Dansby Swanson could move to a super utility role. But that particular situation might not come to pass until the middle of the season at the earliest.
Other internal options include Preston Tucker, Rio Ruiz and Michael Reed — all of which are on the 40-man roster and are not yet arbitration eligible, but also could be non-tendered. UPDATE: Reed was outrighted and the Twins picked him up on waivers on Wednesday.
On the assumption those three two are not the answers, that leaves two to three spots open on the bench.
Alex Anthopolous has suggested the trade market would be the avenue the Braves pursue for upgrades, but there are some compelling options in free agency they could target for the bench.
Let’s take a look.