BRAVES NEWS
Alex Anthopoulos and Terry McGuirk pressed on payroll, offseason moves in Q&A
Jeff Schultz and David O’Brien of The Athletic sat down with Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos and President Terry McGuirk to discuss team payroll and offseason moves, or lack thereof, on Wednesday. With the club being almost perfectly silent since November, fans are understandably restless with the amount of talent being imported to the NL East by Washington, New York, and Philadelphia. Read some of the responses elicited by the two writers, who to their credit asked very poignant questions in the interview.
The Braves are betting on their young talent to keep them on top in the NL East
Our own Demetrius Bell addresses some of the issues being raised by the fan base, examining the club’s decision to remain quiet on both the trade market and free agent market this offseason. As Demetrius writes, the choice largely centers on the front office’s desire to patiently allow their prospects to be given an opportunity at the major league level. That decision may not put them alongside the other three contenders in the division on paper, but youthful rosters have the potential to surprise with unexpected growth by young players.
Atlanta Braves Spring Training Preview: Catchers
Kris Willis continues a rundown of the Braves roster, this time focusing on the catching tandem that will handle the young pitching staff this season. Despite missing on JT Realmuto, the Braves should be in good hands this season, which buys more time for top prospect William Contreras to ascend toward the big leagues.
Acuna set to smash records this season
As beat writer Mark Bowman writes, Braves left fielder Ronald Acuna has an opportunity to etch his name alongside some very distinct company this season. With a combination of tools and health in 2019, Acuna could be ready to push for a 30-30 season, or better.
Those hoping to watch Ronald Acuna Jr. extend last season’s incredible post-All-Star break production should remember that his pace would have equated to 45 homers and 33 stolen bases over 162 games.
Nine different players have accounted for the 11 total 40/30 seasons in MLB history. Acuna’s power and speed tools make him a possible -- and maybe in some eyes probable -- candidate to join Barry Bonds, Hank Aaron and the other members of this exclusive club. But before setting any immediate expectations for the upcoming season, it may be best to simply savor the chance to watch Acuna’s progression toward potential greatness.
MLB NEWS
Nola inks 4-year, $45 million extension