Following the Braves most recent flurry of moves, the Opening Day roster appears set in stone, providing there are no injuries between now and then. Let’s take a look at what it should look like.
Rotation
This may not happen, but it feels like the most likely scenario. Kyle Wright made his first appearance of Spring on Monday and only threw 24 pitches. He still needs 2-3 weeks to stretch out, and there’s no reason for the Braves to rush him, especially when they can let this battle between Dodd and Shuster brew a little bit longer into the regular season. I think Wright begins on the IL, allowing Dodd and Shuster to start a couple of times through the rotation.
Bullpen
- Raisel Iglesias
- A.J. Minter
- Joe Jiménez
- Collin McHugh
- Dylan Lee
- Kirby Yates
- Lucas Luetge
- Jesse Chavez
With Nick Anderson being optioned to Gwinnett, this appears to be the eight relievers the Braves will roll with to open the season. I love the upside of Anderson, but I understand the decision to stash him in the minors while the rest get an opportunity. Injuries will inevitably arise, and at least a couple of these guys will struggle. It won’t be long before Nick Anderson finds himself in Atlanta.
Catchers
This was never a discussion. The Braves boast the best coaching duo in the league.
Infielders
I mentioned Adrianza had the potential to make the Opening Day roster out of Spring Training, but I didn’t think it would be because the Braves would option both Vaughn Grissom and Braden Shewmake to Gwinnett. That situation still puzzles me, but it will work itself out over the season. For now, these are the five infielders the Braves will go into Opening Day with.
Outfielders
- Ronald Acuña Jr.
- Michale Harris II
- Marcell Ozuna
- Eddie Rosario
- Kevin Pillar
- Sam Hilliard
This group also appears to be set in stone, following the options of Jordan Luplow and Eli White. Those two had options remaining, so it made it an easy decision for the Braves to stash them both in Gwinnett. I expect we will see Luplow and White at some point this season. Sam Hilliard had no options remaining and earned his spot with a fantastic Spring Training. Pillar rounds out the group as a more than solid bench option that can offer some pop and plus-defense.
What do you think of the Braves Opening Day roster?
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