Atlanta Braves Make Blockbuster Moves Signaling an All In Approach to 2019

The Atlanta Braves made two blockbuster moves this week kicking off their off-season. Bringing in veterans Brian McCann and Josh Donaldson signals an all-in approach for the Braves without compromising their farm system.

The Atlanta Braves off-season moves are finally underway with the news they have signed Josh Donaldson and Brian McCann. For McCann, it is an exciting reunion with his hometown team. McCann was a leader and hometown hero in Atlanta during his early seasons.

Now he returns to Atlanta a World Series champ, likely to end his career attempting to win a championship with his hometown team.

He came back to Atlanta on a $2.0 million dollar deal, an obvious discount for Atlanta. He will be platooned with Tyler Flowers replacing Kurt Suzuki.

McCann provides so much experience and leadership for a very young clubhouse. He will be a big addition even if he struggles offensively.

Josh Donaldson is a former MVP and if healthy, one of the best third basemen in the League. He will be the everyday starter at third base and allow the Braves a power bat to protect Freddie Freeman they lacked last season.

Donaldson will be on a one-year deal as well paying him more than $20-million this season. A lot of money well spent for one of the best hitters on the market.

Both deals are win now moves for Atlanta, with both veterans presumably spending only one season in Atlanta.

McCann will fill the backup catcher role well, while providing much needed leadership in the clubhouse. Donaldson meanwhile, will make a good Braves lineup remarkably better if he can remain healthy.

Protecting Freeman and giving the team a legitimate cleanup hitter they have lacked for the past four seasons.

These moves are simply the first of several for Atlanta. These moves signal a dedication to winning now without hurting their farm system. More to come as the Braves continue to make moves this off-season.