The Atlanta Braves entered last season with lofty expectations, but ultimately failed to meet them and missed the playoffs entirely.
Because of that disappointment, Atlanta is expected to be aggressive this offseason. While the team has already made some additions, further upgrades to both the pitching staff and the lineup are still needed to remain competitive. That outlook makes it increasingly likely that veteran power hitter Marcell Ozuna will depart in free agency.
Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter reveal that Braves silver slugger will sign with the Arizona Diamondbacks, bringing his time with the Braves to an end.
“The D-backs front office has been entertaining offers for star second baseman Ketel Marte, but it looks increasingly likely he will be removed from the trade block rather than being dealt this winter,” Reuter wrote. “A proven run producer to slot into the cleanup spot in the lineup would boost the entire offense, and the list of logical landing spots for Marcell Ozuna at this point in the offseason is not a long one.”
The Diamondbacks need to add to their roster, but they shouldn’t break the bank for one of the top sluggers in the league.
As a result, taking a chance on a veteran slugger like Ozuna makes a lot of sense.
Ozuna is coming off a down year, which likely drives his value down in free agency. But aside from last season, Ozuna has been one of the best hitters in baseball for the last few seasons. If the Diamondbacks believe they can get him back to his Silver Slugger form, this idea makes perfect sense for both sides.
