Freddie Freeman joined an exclusive group Thursday night when he was named MVP of the National League for the 2020 season. Freeman put together an outstanding campaign which is even more remarkable when you consider that he tested positive for COVID at the start of summer camp and was only cleared to return one week before the start of the regular season. Freeman joins a group of Braves MVP winners that includes Hank Aaron, Dale Murphy, Terry Pendleton and Chipper Jones.
Freeman received 28 of the 30 first place votes from the baseball writers. Mookie Betts garnered the other two first place votes and 21 second place to finish second. Manny Machado edged out teammate Fernando Tatis Jr. for third. Marcell Ozuna finished fifth in the voting. Ronald Acuña Jr., Max Fried and Dansby Swanson also received votes.
More Braves News
Braves assistant GM Perry Minasian was named as the new general manager of the Los Angeles Angels Thursday. Minasian has served as an assistant GM to Alex Anthopoulos for the last three seasons.
This week’s Throwback Thursday column revisits how Atlanta’s pursuit of Dave Winfield ended in them signing Claudell Washington. If you love Braves history then this is a great read.
2020 Season in review
MLB News
The New York Mets and Yankees have reportedly shown interest in veteran catcher Yadier Molina according to MLB Network’s Jon Heyman. Heyman also reports that Molina has heard from at least three other teams.
With their eyes on Molina, the Yankees are also reportedly open to the idea of trading catcher Gary Sanchez. Sanchez is coming off of a season in which he hit just .147/.253/.365.
The Padres are working toward a two-year contract with right-hander Mike Clevinger that would buy out his two remaining years of arbitration.
Orioles outfielder Trey Mancini says that he cancer-free two months after wrapping up chemotherapy treatments. Mancini intends to be ready to play for the Orioles on Opening Day in 2021.