Braves option Pache, Contreras, Pfeifer, and Davidson to Triple-A

With another day into Spring Training comes another round of cuts to the Braves’ major league roster. Cristian Pache, William Contreras, Phil Pfeifer, and Tucker Davidson have all been sent to Triple-A Gwinnett to start the season.

Pache, the Braves’ top prospect, had an impressive spring, hitting to an .863 OPS, including two home runs and three stolen bases in 26 at-bats. However, because the Braves have so many options in the outfield already and Pache has played only 26 games in Triple-A, he was a long shot to make the Opening Day roster. What is surprising, though, is that Pache did not last as long as fellow highly-regarded outfield prospect Drew Waters, who has struck out in 14 of his 21 at-bats this spring.

Another mild surprise is that Pfeifer did not make it closer to the final cuts. Pfeifer is already on the 40-man roster and has impressed this spring. In 7.1 innings in Spring Training, Pfeifer allowed only one earned run, walked two batters, and struck out 10. This is perhaps more an indication of just how deep the Braves’ pitching is. Narrowing down the last few pitching spots on the Opening Roster will be a daunting task for Brian Snitker, but the competition will be fascinating to watch.