Atlanta Braves: 2017 Team Preview
By Jason Reed
Veteran Catcher:
The Atlanta Braves brought in the veteran backstop Kurt Suzuki to play behind starting catcher Tyler Flowers. Heck, if Suzuki impresses greatly in spring that spot may he his for the taking, regardless, this move gave the Braves more depth in the catching position that will undoubtedly give them one of the deepest in the league. Both Flowers and Anthony Recker held their own last season and adding the veteran presence of Suzuki will only improve the team. Not only will Suzuki produce, he will likely influence the younger guys in a way to benefit their game.
Starting Pitching:
Atlanta brought in three notable guys to the rotation, Bartolo Colon, Jaime Garcia, and R.A Dickey. While two of these guys are extremely old, their one-year deals won’t hold the Braves back in the future and will only help in the now. While Colon and Garcia can undoubtedly help out the rotation in a positive manner, I am a firm believer that Dickey’s spot belongs in the bullpen. After his Cy Young performance Dickey has floated around the 4.00 ERA mark and could improve his game with small work loads from the bullpen. In the first inning alone Dickey had a 3.10 ERA last season, so bringing him in for 1-2 innings of work would maximize his potential. However, with the inexperience of the back-end of the rotation Dickey will likely begin the season as a starter.
Infield Depth:
The Braves brought in two considerable talents to sum up their infield – Brandon Phillips and Sean Rodriguez. Brandon Phillips is the outright starter at second base and will boost the Braves fielding along with providing that veteran presence. While Phillips may not be the same player he was three or so years ago, he certainly isn’t washed up in any way. Rodriguez, when returning from injury, will likely serve as an impact utility guy who will see a good amount of playing time as the starters need rest.