By Jordan Long
The Atlanta Braves are preparing for the 2020 season. Their first game is on July 24th against the New York Mets, assuming the season starts on time due to the COVID19 Pandemic. Braves outfielder Nick Markakis opted out of the season, leaving a gap in the outfield. The Braves filled it with the signing of Yasiel Puig.
Puig was one of the top names available in free agency. He has one of the strongest arms in the game. When a baserunner is trying to advance, Puig throws them out. He totaled 8 outfield assists last year for the Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians
Besides his arm, Puig can smack the ball to move baserunners into scoring position. Last season, he hit .267 with 24 home runs and 84 RBI’s. Puig totaled 30 doubles and 2 triples.
Puig will help the Braves, especially when he is on base. His speed allows him to steal a bag on the basepaths. Those stolen bases put him in scoring position. Last year he stole 19 bases. These might improve the Braves’ chances of extending the score.
This seems like a great addition for the Braves. Atlanta needed an outfielder. Their depth has taken a hit. Besides Markakis not playing, All-Star Freddie Freeman is sidelined with the COVID-19 virus. Adding Puig gives them a healthy outfielder.
The downside is Puig’s desire to play. There are times where he doesn’t play hard. He will hit the baseball and he grounds out. Instead of running to maybe beat the throw, he jogs. That means he is taking the play off which a professional should never do.
Puig is worth the risk. The Braves hope he can help them win the National League East Division for the 3rd year in a row. If he fails to play well, the Braves can let him go at the end of the year.
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