Reclamation project players the Braves could consider

If we know anything about Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos, he’s always looking to find diamonds in the rough. He snagged key players like Tyler Matzek in free agency, and trust me, I will defer to his judgement over mine. Still, there are some guys with potential that I think the Braves should consider as minor league free agents. I’ll be focusing on pitchers mostly, as I think the Braves will have good depth in the infield and outfield with upcoming prospects like Travis Demeritte, Cristian Pache, and Drew Waters.

SP Julio Teheran

Hey! Wouldn’t this be fun. Teheran has had a rough go of it, but I think he would be a solid guy to stash in Gwinnett. For the right price, you get someone familiar with the organization that’s an option the Braves can use in case of emergency.

RP Dan Winkler

Another former Brave, Dan Winkler was one of the last Rule 5 Draft choices by the Braves. After a freak catastrophic injury, Winkler was traded in a package for Mark Melancon. Winkler was solid in 2020, but he had a very bad end to 2021 with the Cubs. I think he’s worth bringing to Gwinnett.

RP Hansel Robles

Robles will probably get a Major League deal, but he has had a tough go of things since 2019 when he posted a 2.48 ERA. Robles has a five pitch mix, mostly getting by with his blazing fastball. I’d be willing to buy low on him, especially if Richard Rodriguez is non-tendered.

RP Michael Lorenzen

Lorenzen is the rare two-way outfielder/relief pitcher, but he throws absolute gas. He was a really good reliever in 2018 and 2019, but he has fallen off a bit since. Still, a 97 MPH fastball, 94 MPH cutter, 87 MPH changeup, and 85 MPH slider is appealing to me.

C Chance Cisco

The only hitter on this list, Chance Cisco was a top prospect for a while. He didn’t pan out in Baltimore, and with Adley Rutschman waiting in the wings, I doubt they bring him back. He’s a decent defender, and with Manny Piña in the fold, William Contreras becomes a trade candidate. Cisco is only 26; he could make a fine project catcher in AAA to replace Contreras if he’s moved.