Braves News: Michael Harris among top 10 center fielders, arbitration deadline, more

Atlanta Braves center fielder Michael Harris II was ranked as the fifth best center fielder in the league by MLB Network. Mike Trout currently tops the list.

Michael Harris had an incredible 2022. At the end of May, he was called to the big leagues straight from Double-A. After his call to the majors, he appeared in 1021 frames at center field for the Braves. He had 252 putouts in 257 opportunities and committed just two errors.

Things went right on the offensive side of the ball, too, as he tallied 19 home runs and put together a .297 batting average.

Harris wrapped up 2022 with the National League Rookie of the Year award. His ranking on MLB Network’s current-best center fielders was much deserved.

More Braves News:

Today officially marks the arbitration deadline. Max Fried and AJ Minter are among others who will exchange figures in hopes of a future deal.

Outfielder Gary Sheffield has officially been on the Hall of Fame ballot for nine years. Is 2023 the year he finally makes the cut?

Austin Riley has played a key role in the Braves’ offense. In 2022, he brought it to new heights and became one of the best offensive weapons in the league.

Episode 26 of the Podcast to be Named Later discusses the upcoming arbitration cases, Luke Jackson’s departure, and more.

MLB News:

Trevor Bauer is officially a free agent after being released by the Los Angeles Dodgers, who could not find a trade for the righty. Bauer has not pitched since June 2021.

The Seattle Mariners signed outfielder AJ Pollock to a one-year deal worth $7M. Pollock will be subject to an additional $3M performance bonus.

The Oakland A’s and pitcher Shintaro Fujinami have officially agreed to a one-year deal with a $3.25M guarantee.

The Boston Red Sox and LHP Josh Taylor avoided arbitration after agreeing to a one-year, $1.025M contract for the 2023 season.

The New York Mets have reportedly shown interest in Adam Duvall.

Reliever Hoby Milner and catcher Victor Caratini each avoided arbitration after agreeing to deals with the Milwaukee Brewers. Milner’s deal is worth $1.025M. Caratini agreed to a $2.8M salary.

Lee Tinsley, former Philadelphia Phillies outfielder, passed away at age 53.