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Breaking down the Atlanta Braves’ Spring Training Invites

By Matthew Brothers

Oct 2, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; General view during the final game at Turner Field in the sixth inning of a game between the Atlanta Braves and Detroit Tigers. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 2, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; General view during the final game at Turner Field in the sixth inning of a game between the Atlanta Braves and Detroit Tigers. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
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Looking ahead to April, the Atlanta Braves are looking for players to impress this Spring.

With only 13 days until pitchers and catchers report, the Atlanta Braves have released their non-roster invites for Spring training. Barring a late signing (only 39 on active roster) these players will compete for an opening day spot with Atlanta. In a likely scenario, the Braves could look to add a bullpen arm from the non-roster talent if anyone impresses.

In terms of bullpen options, a guy like Jordan Walden or Blaine Boyer are certainly possibilities. Both of course have played in Atlanta previously and are very experienced. It’s also very tough to sleep on a guy like A.J Minter. His numbers were fantastic last year while holding Double A hitters to a .188 batting average. However, he’s still limited by previous Tommy John surgery so he’ll probably start in the minors but I’d expect to see him in Atlanta sooner rather than later.

As far as starting pitching goes Atlanta seems pretty set . A rotation of Colon, Dickey, Garcia, Folty, and Teheran is inevitable to begin the year. Matt Wisler and Aaron Blair got significant time last season but are on the outside looking in at this point in time. John Danks is getting an invite so the Braves at best are hoping he could fetch a Bud Norris like return. Also, Sean Newcomb is back at spring training but he will begin the year at least in Gwinnett or Mississippi. Patrick Weigel really turned in on last season so Atlanta will at least have a look at him starting on the 14th.

Next: Braves Off-season Targets

One name in particular is very intriguing heading into workouts.

Mar 17, 2016; Melbourne, FL, USA; Atlanta Braves shortstop Ozzie Albies (87) makes a throw in the third inning against the Washington Nationals at Space Coast Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 17, 2016; Melbourne, FL, USA; Atlanta Braves shortstop Ozzie Albies (87) makes a throw in the third inning against the Washington Nationals at Space Coast Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports /

Ozzie Albies is a player all Braves fans love to talk about for good reason. Defensive ability and skills at the plate are why many see him and Dansby as a combo for the ages. His elbow fracture though, prohibited him from playing in the Arizona Fall league which is why he’ll most likely begin the year somewhere in the minors. However, I’m excited to see him play again and can’t rule anything out as to the major league roster. All in all, it is easy to predict how spring training will go, but with these Atlanta Braves anything is possible.

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