FCP on OS: Despite Risk, Braves Fill Need With Upton
Upton has tools, but the word potential likely doesn’t apply.
Evidently, the industry of Major League Baseball has lost the meaning of the phrase fiscal restraint. With the hot stove season just beginning to percolate, teams are making use of the extra television revenue that was received before the winter. Thus far, most teams are showing a willingness to spend. The Reds inked Jonathan Broxton to a three year, $21 million deal. The Royals are paying Ervin Santana $12 million and just gave Jeremy Guthrie $25 million over three years. Torii Hunter got $28 million while Jeremy Affeldt got $18 million.
Money doesn’t seem to be an issue this winter. The Atlanta Braves joined the big spending bonanza by signing center fielder BJ Upton to a five year, $75 million deal. Upton, entering his age 28 season, has always been an intriguing talent. He gives the Braves lineup a power threat from the right side, something that is needed as the Braves’ power sources come from lefthanders Jason Heyward, Brian McCann, and Freddie Freeman. He comes cheaper than the Braves former centerfielder Michael Bourn would have, but the Braves do pay more than most thought for Upton.
Category: FCP on OS
