Atlanta Braves: Should Bring Martin Prado Back to Atlanta

The Atlanta Braves have a known need at third base and recent reports suggest will look for a short term fix. Current Marlin and former Braves utility man Martin Prado could be the perfect fit in Atlanta.

The Atlanta Braves are coming into the season with a known need at third base. Recently reported by MLB Trade Rumors was the fact that the Braves are unlikely to sign a third baseman long term.

Likely to keep the path clear for Austin Riley who has flashed impressive power in the Braves system so far. While that severely will limit the Braves viable options in free agency it could open the Braves up to a reunion.

Martin Prado is a name that many Braves fans will remember. He spent his first seven seasons with the Braves and put up impressive numbers playing almost every position while hitting around .300 and playing great defense.

While he may have aged slightly Prado is currently a Marlin and continues to be a productive player. The problem for Prado last season was injuries as he only made it into 37 games last year.

Keeping Prado in the lineup was difficult and looking to shed payroll the Marlins are likely to attempt to move the veteran. It would be a perfect fit for the Braves if the Marlins are willing to deal with a division rival.

Prado could provide stability at third as well as an ability to play multiple positions making an already flexible Braves’ infield even better.

A career .291 hitter Prado would offer a young Braves team leadership as well considering they will soon lose one of either outfield veterans Nick Markakis or Matt Kemp in favor of a rookie. The one problem standing in the way of the perfect reunion will be the Marlin’s asking price.

How much would it take for the Marlins to move Prado within the division? It seems likely that a package including a non-prospect and a change of scenery name like Matt Wisler would be enough to get it done if the Marlins are truly looking to simply dump Prado’s salary.

If that is the case however, there will likely be a long line of teams calling for Prado and forcing the Braves to decide whether they are willing to pay in the form of a prospect for a possible rental or look at a veteran deal on a limited free agent market.

Next: Bulldogs Finish in Athens

Regardless of their decision you can rest assured that the Braves will at least inquire the Marlin’s asking price on Martin Prado.