ATLANTA, GA – APRIL 09: Brian Snitker #43 and Alex Anthopoulos of the Atlanta Braves looks at the World Series ring during the World Series Ring Ceremony before the game against the Cincinnati Reds at Truist Park on April 9, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Adam Hagy/Getty Images)
The Atlanta Braves had a stellar offseason, thanks in part to the Sean Murphy trade. Nonetheless, they did miss out on a few free agents they could come to regret.
The Atlanta Braves like to promote from within, in a sense. They often sign their young players prior to their arbitration years, saving time and money in the process. Atlanta’s young core, for the most part, is signed through the next 3-5 years. It makes the Braves competitive window crystal clear.
As FanSided’s John Buhler notes in a recent column, the Braves young core isn’t going anywhere:
“Seven of Snitker’s key players have signed multi-year extensions through 2027 and beyond in some cases (Ronald Acuña Jr., Ozzie Albies, Michael Harris II, Sean Murphy, Matt Olson, Austin Riley, Spencer Strider). Even key pitchers like Ian Anderson, Tyler Matzek and Kyle Wright will still be under contract by then. Max Fried is in a contract year, but Atlanta is in good shape financially.”
Even manager Brian Snitker signed a contract extension through 2025. The Braves way of roster building would be ideal for all 30 MLB teams, if they could accomplish it. But what of MLB free agency?
Roster flexibility gives Atlanta the opportunity to take a swing in free agency, should they wish. However, the Braves failed to make a big splash via the free-agent market this winter. Will they come to regret it?
Braves should’ve brought back a fan favorite
Joc Pederson ended up re-signing with the San Francisco Giants, but the man with the pearl necklace would’ve been welcomed back with open arms had the Braves opened their wallets for a short-term contract.
Pederson was beloved in Atlanta, and was a great locker room presence. Considering the Braves went on to lose Dansby Swanson to the Chicago Cubs, Pederson would’ve helped fill the void not just in the clubhouse, but the lineup as well.
Joc made just his second All-Star team in 2022, slashing .274/.353/.521 and playing a solid corner outfield spot for the Giants. Pederson enjoys playing in San Francisco, but he’s a fan favorite in Atlanta, and was a member of the 2021 World Series team.
The Braves don’t have many answers at the corner outfield spot right now. Marcell Ozuna and a pair of platoon players will fill the void for now. Pederson would’ve been an easy replacement for a player like Ozuna, who causes problems on and off the field. Instead, Atlanta has a clear hole in their lineup.