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The Atlanta Braves remain in search of a power bat to slot into the middle of their order but will also need to fill out at least a couple of spots on their bench. The team has stated that they are in the market for someone who can fill in at shortstop and may consider bringing back Adeiny Hechavarria. Another bench option may be Charlie Culberson who just returned on a minor-league deal that also includes an invite to spring training. The Braves non-tendered Culberson earlier in the offseason and he fielded a few Major League offers according to MLB.com’s Mark Bowman, but none were strong enough to sway him from returning to Atlanta.
With rosters expanding to 26 players along with Culberson’s ability to fill in at multiple positions could make him an enticing option for that final roster spot. Those chances would likely increase if Johan Camargo figures into the equation at third base.
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With Anthony Rendon now off the market, there is a small group of teams that have focused their attention on Josh Donaldson. The Braves and the Nationals appear to be the favorites according to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal but the Minnesota Twins are another team that is still showing interest.
Hot Stove
One big name to turn up in trade rumors has been Cleveland right-hander Corey Kluber. Kluber suffered through an injury plagued season in 2019 but remains one of the league’s top starters. Multiple teams including the Texas Rangers and perhaps the Dodgers have shown interest although Los Angeles may be more focused on shortstop Francisco Lindor.
There may be another interesting and valuable third base option available this winter as the Colorado Rockies are reportedly willing to listen to trade offers for Nolan Arenado. The Rockies inked Arenado to a seven-year, $234 million extension last offseason which also includes a full no-trade clause. However, he has expressed some frustration after the Rockies’ disappointing 2019 season and might be willing to accept a trade to a contender.
The Milwaukee Brewers are among a group of teams that are showing interest in free-agent outfielder Avisail Garcia. The Tampa Bay Rays and Miami Marlins have previously been linked to Garcia.