Atlanta Braves looking to balance lineup: add a left-handed bat
By Fred Owens
Atlanta Braves GM gave an interview to XM Radio’s Front Office last Friday and indicated he’d like to add a left-handed bat.
The Atlanta Braves GM spoke to Jim Bowdon and Jim Duquette on the Friday, June 17th, show (if you subscribe to Sirius-XM, search for Alex Anthopoulos: his comments begin at the 1:55 point on the countdown timer).
Bowden began by praising the Braves’ depth and acknowledging that it’s too early to know what the team will need at the deadline. He followed that in true Bowden style by asking what the team might want at the deadline.
Anthopoulos responded by reminding Bowden that the Braves hope to have Mike Soroka, Kirby Yates, Eddie Rosario, and Ozzie Albies back around that time. Bowden agreed with Anthopoulos that, without having to make a move, those were better deadline acquisitions than most teams will get this year.
Anthopoulos said that he felt the lineup was a little righthanded, making a lefthanded bat the most obvious choice. He emphasized that he wouldn’t acquire a player just because he’s a lefthanded hitter.
On this week’s episode of Off Leo’s Rocker, Alan and I discussed candidates that matched than criteria. Unfortunately, not every fan listens to us, so I’ll go over the names that came up during our chat.
An Atlanta Braves type player
Based on his history since taking over, Anthopoulos will look for players whose metrics say add value and are known as positive additions to the clubhouse.
Presumably, he’s once again looking for an outfielder because there’s a no vacancy sign everywhere else. So, a left-handed hitting outfielder — perhaps one with experience at first base to give Olson a day off -– who brings defense and a useful bat. Players who meet those requirements are few, and those that do may not hit the market.