It appears that the Braves have interest in Michael Brantley:
The rumor that has former #Indians OF Michael Brantley going to the #Braves with a three year contract certainly makes sense. Losing Brantley has increased the pressure for Cleveland to shore up a weak hitting outfield. Do they trade a pitcher to get it done?
— Bernie Pleskoff (@BerniePleskoff) November 7, 2018
Former #Indians OF Michael Brantley fits nicely in the spot to be vacated by Nick Markakis for the #Braves. Yes, the rumors are out there. I heard it early last week and I've heard it and read about it since. The rumor is that the #Braves are very interested in signing Brantley.
— Bernie Pleskoff (@BerniePleskoff) November 7, 2018
This information comes from an old MLB scout. This is far from a “done deal”, but it seems like a very possibility that Brantley could become a Braves. It certainly makes sense.
Brantley enjoyed a return to form for the Indians in 2018 after only being able to play 101 games total the two seasons prior. He continued to show he is a dominant contact hitter in this league as he slashed .309 with 17 homers and 76 RBI.
What would the Braves get in Brantley? A very similar hitter to Nick Markakis with marginally fresher legs. Brantley is a career .295 hitter and has been an All-Star the past two seasons. He would provide the Braves with a similarly consistent bat, at the same position, less removed from his prime. A three-year deal as reported would be a great option for the Braves.
The hot stove keeps churning!