Braves Need To Resolve
The Braves are down to a dozen spring training games, including a pair of exhibitions against the Tigers at Turner Field. Here are six things the Braves have to figure out between now and April 5, when they open the season in Philadelphia.
Who will be the starting center fielder?
Josh Anderson is the logical choice, as the speedster and potential leadoff hitter. He’s out of options and would have to clear waivers if the Braves sent him down. He’s likely to be claimed, so it’s play him, lose him or trade him. The only reason to trade him is if the Braves decide Jordan Schafer is ready. Schafer has been a hot hitter but the Braves might not want his arbitration clock ticking this early, making him a potential “Super 2” and eligible for arbitration a year early.
Do the Braves need to acquire a left-handed reliever?
After left-handers Boone Logan and Eric O’Flaherty gave up a combined 11 runs to the Mets Sunday, it at least raised the question if the Braves have what they need. They have left-hander Mike Gonzalez in the bullpen, but he’s the closer. The Braves could decide it’s time to give Will Ohman a call. They rescinded their contract offer to Ohman after last season, but he’s still sitting at home.
Will the Braves trade from their bullpen surplus?
The Braves have a plethora of right-handed long relievers/spot starters in the bullpen — like Buddy Carlyle, Jorge Campillo and Jeff Bennett. Might they decide to trade one to build up some depth in their farm system? They could bring in a prospect at third base, where there isn’t an obvious heir apparent to Chipper Jones.
Will Tom Glavine’s shoulder and elbow hold up?
The Braves won’t need him until April 19 for the fifth starter’s spot, but they will keep a close watch on Glavine as they wrap up spring training. Glavine has been optimistic about his progress in his comeback from elbow and shoulder surgery. But the 43-year-old still needs to add arm strength/velocity if he’s going to feel comfortable that he can get hitters out consistently.
Will Garret Anderson and Chipper Jones be ready for the season?
Both Anderson (calf) and Jones (oblique) have missed significant time with injuries. The Braves are confident both will be ready for the season as veteran hitters, but it will be something to watch when it comes to two of the biggest bats in the lineup. Jones is expected to return Tuesday against the Pirates and Anderson later in the week if he continues to progress.
Does Brian McCann have enough time to get acquainted new pitchers?
McCann has missed three weeks of camp while he played in the World Baseball Classic. The U.S. was eliminated Sunday and McCann could be back behind the plate as soon as Tuesday to catch Javier Vazquez. McCann will have plenty of work to do, getting used to working with Vazquez, Kenshin Kawakami and Derek Lowe, all newcomers to the rotation.