Atlanta Braves Bring Back Depth Piece Rafael Ortega

The Atlanta Braves are continuing to stay busy this off-season bringing back outfielder Rafael Ortega. Ortega is a solid depth piece for a position Atlanta has plenty of options to consider.

Rafael Ortega was an impact player for the Atlanta Braves down the stretch of the season. Due to injuries Ortega was forced into start or playing the fourth outfielder/pinch hitter role. Despite his .205 average Ortega was productive and made a lot of plays for Atlanta.

His most memorable one being a grand slam against the Dodgers to give Atlanta the lead. Ortega is unlikely to see any starting time in the Braves outfield barring injury. The Braves starting outfield of Ronald Acuna Jr., Ender Inciarte, and Nick Markakis is already backed up by Adam Duvall.

The Braves could opt to use Austin Riley or Johan Camargo in left field as well before Rafael Ortega becomes a viable option.

Atlanta has continued to stay busy this off-season after another first round postseason exit. They have done well bringing back depth and bringing in new talent. The biggest addition so far has been pitcher Cole Hamels who will look to give the Braves an experienced postseason option.

They haven’t been observers of the market as they have been in years past, instead making moves to attempt to catch division rival the Washington Nationals. They are unlikely to be done making moves either considering they still need a third baseman and possibly another rotation piece.

Rafael Ortega is simply the next move in what will be a series of moves. He is solid piece that could prove useful in case of injury. Nick Markakis is aging and having plenty of options in the Braves outfield will be important in 2020.  It would not be a surprise if Atlanta opted to add another outfielder before opening day. More to come as the off-season continues.