Atlanta Braves Free Agency: Braves still discussing reunion with Kelly Johnson

Kelly Johnson was a very serviceable to good player for the Braves last season. He provided a lot of utility and occasional streaks of pop for an offense that oftentimes desperately needed it. Many of us were happy to see the Braves give KJ a spot on the major league roster last season as we looked back fondly on his first stint with the club. However, as last season went downhill in a hurry for the Braves, Kelly was traded along with Juan Uribe to the Mets at the trade deadline for minor-leaguers John Gant and Rob Whalen. Given that both players were free agents at the end of the year, it was not exactly a surprising.

That said, the Braves glowed about Kelly's performance and attitude last season and it appears as though the team is certainly willing to entertain yet another reunion with him.

Braves Discussing Reunion With Kelly Johnson https://t.co/dmN34f9zYR #braves

— Tim Dierkes (@mlbtrbraves) January 6, 2016

The #Braves have continued discussions with Kelly Johnson. Still seems like there's a chance a deal could be reached.

— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) January 5, 2016

While no deal appears to be imminent, it does say something that KJ and the Braves continue to be linked. One obstacle on the Braves end may be all of the dead money currently sitting on their bench with Nick Swisher and Michael Bourn. Its unclear how much KJ would require to sign, although it certainly wouldn't be a question of big dollars so much as Kelly wanting to know about playing time and where he wants to spend the twilight of his career.

Last season,  Johnson slashed .265/.314/.435 with 14 homers and 47 RBIs, including a .275/.321/.451 line with the Braves in 62 games.