The Atlanta Braves and Eric Hinske agreed to a one year $1.45 million deal on Thursday. The deal includes a $1.5 million club option for 2012 with a $100K buyout. The Braves beat out the Milwaukee Brewers for Hinske’s services. Hinske acknowledged that the Brewers could have signed him if they would have offered a two year deal. The Brewers, like the Braves, would not offer the extra year. The Braves won out because of Hinske’s familiarity and how much better this team will be than the Brewers.
Fans will be ecstatic to have Hinske return. He was a fan favorite in 2010, but also a favorite among players within the clubhouse. He solves one of the problems that the Braves had. They still have to fill a couple more spots, but this is one less problem they must worry with.
As for Matt Diaz, his time with the Braves came to a close on Thursday. The Braves non-tendered him, making him a free agent. He made $2.55 million in 2010. He would have accepted the same amount, however this was too expensive for the Braves. He will be looking for another home, but interest has been reported by other teams including the Philadelphia Phillies.
The other arbitration eligible players that the Braves had: Dan Uggla, Martin Prado, Peter Moylan, Jair Jurrjens, and Eric O’Flaherty were offered contracts.
Original Story:
http://www.tomahawktalk.com/2010/12/b...
