Four Areas The Atlanta Braves Can Improve Through Free Agency
By Deke Lloyd
4. Third Base
When the Braves signed Josh Donaldson to a one-year deal last season, it was met with a lot of skepticism. Donaldson was oft-injured third basemen would look to be past prime years. However, after a great comeback year from Donaldson, he’s nominated for the MLB Comeback Player of the Year, an award he should win, and due for one more massive payday after the exceptional year he had in Atlanta.
With Donaldson due to hit free agency, the Braves will be missing a big bat and defensive star from their team going into next season. Hopefully, the way the season ended didn’t leave a bad taste in Donaldson’s mouth and he would be willing to listen to an offer from the Braves. After the season he had last year, both would be wise to consider doing it all again next season. However, with Austin Riley looking like he’s ready to play, the spot might be taken going into next season.
The free agency market for third basemen isn’t as deep as the pitchers or outfield, however, there are some good options. Anthony Rendon is the marquee name, but with the offer he has from the Nats, I don’t see him leaving D.C. That leaves Donaldson, Mike Moustakas, who has a team option, Todd Frazier, Pablo Sandoval, and Asdrubal Cabrera. It’s not a deep field of players, but Frazier could make sense if the Braves aren’t ready for Riley to play every day and Donaldson signs elsewhere.
None of those names, other than Rendon who is very unlikely for the Braves, can compare to what Donaldson provided for this Braves lineup and defense. Donaldson provided protection in the lineup for Freddie Freeman that the Braves haven’t seen in the past. Both players thrived. Donaldson should be at the top of the Braves priorities when free agency kicks off.