The Braves have reached a deal with left-handed reliever Grant Dayton for $900K for the 2021 season, the club announced Wednesday afternoon.
Dayton, who was a possible non-tender candidate, will battle for a spot in the bullpen next spring. The 33-year-old southpaw pitched fairly well in the shortened 2020 season, posting a 2.30 ERA and 4.07 FIP (5.06 xFIP) across 27 innings and 18 appearances. If he makes the team, he would likely assume a 6th or 7th inning role whenever called upon.
The Braves’ bullpen was one of the best in the game last summer, ranking in the top five of nearly every important metric. While it remains to be seen what happens with free agents Mark Melancon and Shane Greene, the unit should be good once again in 2021, especially if Will Smith is able to regain his form following a forgettable shortened 2020.
Earlier today, the Braves reached a one-year pact with Johan Camargo for $1.36 million.