Braves Bolster Bullpen With Veteran Reliever! Key Roster Moves Strengthens Team’s Pitching Core
The Atlanta Braves have been busy trimming their roster as spring training progresses, reassigning multiple players to minor league camp while also adding a veteran arm to the mix. These moves come as the Braves continue to navigate an offseason that has been widely criticized, with ESPN scouts giving them a D-minus rating after losing key players and failing to make major upgrades.
On March 2, the Braves reassigned infielder Eddy Alvarez and right-handed pitcher Chad Kuhl to minor league camp. Alvarez, a versatile infielder with big-league experience, was hoping to compete for a bench role but will now begin the season in the minors. Kuhl, who has spent time in the majors with the Pirates, Rockies, and Nationals, was a non-roster invitee looking to earn a spot in the Braves’ bullpen but will now have to wait for an opportunity.
A day prior, on March 1, the team reassigned left-handed pitcher Chasen Shreve and right-handed pitcher Jordan Weems. Both pitchers were competing for bullpen depth but will start the season in the minors unless injuries or performance change the Braves’ plans. On February 28, the Braves also reassigned catcher Adam Zebrowski to minor league camp, further narrowing the competition behind the plate.
However, Atlanta made an addition on March 3, signing veteran right-hander Héctor Neris to a minor league deal with an invitation to spring training. Neris, who has extensive late-inning experience with the Phillies and Astros, could be a key bullpen piece if he earns a major league spot.
With a depleted roster and limited offseason improvements, it will be intriguing to see how these changes come together for Atlanta, especially with the pitching staff taking a hit.
