Jake Lamb signing is official, Braves designate Phil Pfeifer for assignment

On Saturday we told you about the imminent signing of Jake Lamb by the Braves. The Braves had physicals yesterday. We now have a report that it is official.

Jake Lamb is signed for one million for 2021, per Jon Heyman. It is a major league contract per Joel Sherman. There is no confirmation from the Braves at this point.

Lamb will likely backup Austin Riley at third base and pinch hit as needed. Lamb had a 104 wRC+ and 6.4 WAR through 2017, but since injuries have led to a line of .193/.283/.352 with a 78 RC+ and 0.1 WAR since. If Lamb can regain his 2017 form, the Braves have a Comeback Player of the Year candidate. The one million dollars is a small price to upgrade the bench to take a flyer.

The next question is who gets shipped out. The current 40-man is full at the moment. Chad Sobotka seems to be a candidate. Victor Arano could go as well, as the Braves quickly parted with their other newly acquired Phillies, Kyle Garlick. Mike Soroka may be placed on the 60-Day Injured List as well. This could be backdated, so that Maple Maddux can come back when ready, yet buys the Braves time to sort out their roster. Talking Chop will update as the Braves make the signing official.

UPDATE - The Braves have officially announced that Lamb has agreed to a one-year, non-guaranteed deal. To make room on the 40-man roster, Atlanta designated Phil Pfeifer for assignment.