Key Highlights
- The Atlanta Braves secured a two-year, $23 million deal with veteran outfielder Mike Yastrzemski during the 2024 Winter Meetings.
- Athletic President of Baseball Operations Alex Anthopoulos added versatility to the roster by signing Yastrzemski as a fourth outfielder.
- Despite securing a significant player, the Braves still face challenges in addressing their starting pitching and bullpen needs.
- With shortstop Mauricio Dubón and Ha-Seong Kim’s market yet to fully materialize, Anthopoulos’ focus remains on improving offensive depth.
The Atlanta Braves Seal a Key Deal: Mike Yastrzemski Joins the Roster
Following the conclusion of the 2024 Winter Meetings in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, the Atlanta Braves have bolstered their roster with the signing of veteran outfielder Mike Yastrzemski to a two-year, $23 million deal. This move underscores the team’s commitment to adding depth and versatility as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Braves’ Manager Walt Weiss Sees Benefits in Adding Yastrzemski
Manager Walt Weiss expressed satisfaction with the signing, stating that Yastrzemski will serve as a fourth outfielder. This addition is expected to give Weiss more flexibility and options when managing his lineup, allowing him to regularly rest each of his regular outfielders by utilizing them in the designated hitter (DH) role or giving them more off-days.
Braves’ President of Baseball Operations Alex Anthopoulos Sees a Versatile Addition
Athletic president Alex Anthopoulos highlighted that the signing of Yastrzemski is part of a broader strategy to add versatility and depth to the Braves’ roster. While the deal addresses one key need, it leaves other pressing issues unresolved, particularly in the starting pitching and bullpen departments.
Remaining Needs: Starting Pitching and Reliever
Athletic President Alex Anthopoulos has identified several areas of concern for the Braves. One primary challenge is addressing their starting rotation, which has shown signs of vulnerability due to injury concerns among key players. Specifically, there’s a need to add insurance to the rotation, as six different pitchers missed at least five weeks with injuries in 2023.
Despite the interest in free agent Zac Gallen, Anthopoulos acknowledges that any move could come with significant costs.
Additionally, the team faces the challenge of finding a high-leverage reliever after Joe Jiménez’s left knee injury has limited his availability as a setup man. Reports suggest the Braves have shown interest in Robert Suarez to fill this role. However, the team also considers the option of repositioning Reynaldo López back into the bullpen as Raisel Iglesias’ setup man.
Versatility at Shortstop: Dubón or Kim?
The shortstop position remains a critical area of focus for Anthopoulos and manager Weiss. While they are open to having Mauricio Dubón as the everyday shortstop, the decision will depend on Ha-Seong Kim’s availability in the market. If Kim signs with another team, Dubón could become the primary shortstop, potentially altering the offensive strategy.
With the possibility of either player becoming the starting shortstop, Anthopoulos and Weiss are looking to add a versatile outfielder who can also serve as an option for the DH role. This move is seen as crucial given that Kim hasn’t always provided the level of production expected from a high-profile free agent signing.
Regardless of whether Dubón or Kim takes over at shortstop, the Braves remain committed to building depth and versatility across their roster, with the 2024 Winter Meetings serving as just one step in this ongoing process.