Offseason Recap: Braves Sign Michael Kohn

(Rick Osentoski/USA TODAY Sports)

On December 4, 2014, the Braves signed RHP Michael Kohn to a minor-league deal with an invitation to Spring Training. This was one of the most underrated moves made by John Hart in the offseason. Kohn came up in the Angels organization but was released by the big league squad in September. Kohn was also released by the Tampa Bay Rays in November. Kohn looks great on paper until your eyes meet the BB column. Kohn has put up a 3.67 ERA in his 110.1 big league innings for Anaheim. However, he has averaged 6 walks per nine innings. So why is this a good signing for Atlanta? He has big league innings under his belt and moderate success. Roger McDowell has a reputation for helping pitchers with control issues, and I believe that McDowell could have this kid throwing a sub-3 ERA this year. If Kohn can cut down on his walks, he can be one of our top middle relief options in the bullpen. Kohn gave up only a .141 batting average to opposing hitters last year, but with all the walks their on-base percentage was .327. The Braves also don’t have much to lose with the minor-league signing, if he does not make the big league roster Kohn is still quality organizational depth. Kohn grew up an Atlanta Braves fan, and is a Charleston, SC native.

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