Atlanta Braves: Free Agent Bud Norris Could Fit in Atlanta

To call the Atlanta Braves bullpen a dumpster fire might be an understatement to just how terrible the pen has been so far. With this in mind, the Braves have to consider all options including former Brave Bud Norris.

Bud Norris started the season with the Jays before being cut after an early dismal performance. For the Atlanta Braves he could offer a veteran who has shown an ability to pitch in high leverage situations.

Norris has a career 47-saves all in the two years since he left Atlanta. Signing Norris wouldn’t fix Atlanta’s problems by any means but it certainly wouldn’t make them any worse either.

At best Norris is a late inning arm who would provide a veteran presence and some stability to a pen with none of the above.

Bud Norris spent time with Atlanta already as a starter and proved himself to have surprising value. He then spent the last two seasons converting himself into a reliever. Signing him instead of Craig Kimbrel or with Kimbrel would help the problems the Braves currently have.

Another option for Atlanta to convert their treasure trove of young arms to bullpen weapons to help stretch what is a very thin unit.

Norris, however, seems to be a more achievable scenario considering his late inning experience and potential to improve a putrid late inning relief unit.

Norris has a career 4.45 ERA and is at his best when used in small doses as a spot starter or out of the bullpen.

Regardless of whether or not Norris is the answer the Braves must make a move or they will continue to fall in the standings. Fixing the bullpen isn’t optional if Atlanta wants to remain in an increasingly tough division race. They must find a way to improve if they want to continue to be contenders.