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As has been the case for the last few weeks, Braves fans’ universes have swirled around the question “Will the Braves bring back Marcell Ozuna?”
It was fair question and an important one. While we don’t know for sure if the DH is going to be in the National League or not (although signs are pointing to no at the moment), we do know that a Braves lineup that had to operate with a pitcher and Ender Inciarte (at least as of this moment) and without Ozuna does not...make one excited. The Braves could have survived without Marcell, but it would be a huge blow to be sure.
Which is why the reporting from yesterday was at least somewhat encouraging given that the Braves remain in the mix in Ozuna’s market. Jon Morosi even went as far as to say that the Braves are the current favorites for his services.
However, what optimism existed was very guarded as there were clearly other teams such as the Dodgers and Rays in on Ozuna and Atlanta sports fans, if anything, know how to brace themselves to be hurt again. Fortunately, that did not come to pass as the Braves did, in fact, secure Ozuna on a very, very reasonable four year deal that guarantees Ozuna $65 million with a fifth year option. Your 40 man roster casualty in order to sign Ozuna was Kyle Garlick, who was designated for assignment. You are forgiven if you forgot that the Braves even had him on the roster.
If podcasts are your thing, make sure to check out the episode that Brad and Scott recorded in emergency fashion to discuss said Ozuna signing. Also, you should subscribe to the Talking Chop podcast stream in iTunes, Stitcher, or whatever your preferred purveyor of podcasts is. We would appreciate it.
MLB News
Trevor Bauer signs three-year, $102 million deal with Dodgers
The big news going into the weekend across the league is that the best pitcher on the free agent market, Trevor Bauer, joins arguably the best team in the league as he signed a three year deal with the Dodgers. A shorter term deal but with a high AAV and with opt outs, Bauer’s signing is a reminder that until proven otherwise...the Dodgers are the league end boss for at least the next several years.
Mike Foltynewicz close to signing deal with the Rangers
Mike Foltynewicz seemed to be on the precipice of leading a talented young Braves rotation for the next several years. Unfortunately, some pretty significant physical setbacks cost him not only that opportunity, but it got him outrighted off the Braves 40 man roster. Now, it looks like he is heading back to Texas (he started his career with the Astros) as the Rangers are looking to add him as a potential major league option.