Yasiel Puig is headed to Atlanta. Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

Report: Braves to sign former All-Star OF Yasiel Puig

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 7/14/20

One of the biggest available names has reportedly found a home less than two weeks before Opening Day for the pandemic-shortened MLB season.

On Tuesday, Mark Feinsand of MLB.com tweeted that 29-year-old veteran outfielder Yasiel Puig is joining the Atlanta Braves.

Yasiel Puig is signing with the Braves, per source.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) July 14, 2020

Feinsand added that Puig could serve as a replacement for outfielder Nick Markakis, who recently opted out of competing amid the worsening coronavirus pandemic.

MLB insider Jon Heyman tweeted that prospect Cristian Pache suffering an injury on Monday may have led to Atlanta pursuing Puig.

Puig close to a Braves deal. Ankle injury last night to prospect Christian Pache caused Atlanta to move on it. @Feinsand 1st
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) July 14, 2020

Puig played for the Cincinnati Reds last season until he joined the Cleveland Indians via a pre-trade-deadline transaction. In total, he blasted 24 home runs, drove home 84 RBI and hit .267 in 149 regular-season outings.

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