The Atlanta Braves have taken care of their hole in right field by signing Yasiel Puig.
The on-going free agency saga of Yasiel Puig was a constant merry-go-round of rumors. Originally, the Giants were expected to sign the talented outfielder, then came rumors that the Orioles had made an offer. Puig had even reportedly received an offer to join the Kiwoom Heroes in the Korean Baseball Organization, but decided that he wanted to find an offer stateside.
That offer has finally come. The Atlanta Braves have signed Puig, adding another talented bat to the roster.
Yasiel Puig is signing with the Braves, per source.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) July 14, 2020
The Braves do have a hole in the outfield. Nick Markakis, the starting right fielder, has opted out of the 2020 campaign. While the trio of Ender Inciarte, Ronald Acuna Jr., and Marcell Ozuna are more than capable, Atlanta did need more depth to the roster.
A one time Dodgers standout, Puig has become a bit of a baseball vagabond, as the Braves will be his fourth organization since the 2018 season ended. Last year, split between the Reds and Indians, he produced a solid .267/.347/.458 batting line, hitting 30 doubles, 24 homers, and stealing 19 bases.
Although he may not be the player he once was on defense, Puig is still an adequate right fielder with a strong arm. He notched eight outfield assists last season, despite players generally being unwilling to run on him.
The Braves are a perfect situation for Puig as well. While the multi-year deal he coveted in free agency never developed, he joins a team with distinct postseason aspirations. If Puig can put together a strong showing in Atlanta, and stay out of controversy, he may get that contract he desires.
Yasiel Puig has finally found a home, joining the Atlanta Braves. It is a deal that could work out well for both parties.