3 players for Atlanta Braves to target this offseason
By David Hill
Mitch Haniger
The Atlanta Braves are in an enviable position where most of their starting lineup is set. However, there is a big hole in left.
At this point, it would make sense for the Braves to look outside the organization to fill that void. Marcell Ozuna was a disaster in 2022 after his suspension and was then hit with a DUI. Eddie Rosario needed eye surgery and did not hit after he returned. Sam Hilliard may have been an intriguing prospect once but his strikeout woes have limited his effectiveness. The Braves have some interesting depth, but nothing that a playoff caliber roster should be comfortable starting.
Fortunately for the Braves, there may be a few bargains available in free agency. Mitch Haniger could be one such bargain after he has battled through injuries over three of the past four seasons. Even with his back and ankle woes last season, he posted a respectable .246/.308/.429 batting line with 11 homers in his 247 plate appearances. This follows an excellent 2021 campaign where Haniger had a 122 OPS+ while hitting 39 homers.
The potential is there with Haniger. He has proven that he can be a valuable option in the lineup if he is healthy. That is the question – can he be healthy enough to make an impact for a team looking to contend? It would be worth finding out for the Braves.
The Atlanta Braves have enough outfield depth where they can take a chance on someone like Mitch Haniger. He could prove to be a bargain.