Full as a tick. That’s a good way to describe the Braves 40-man roster because, yes, it’s 100% full, but it can be squeezed, burst, and emptied out with a quickness. In case you missed it, here are the 40-man roster additions that occurred yesterday.
The #Braves today selected RHP Freddy Tarnok, OF Drew Waters, RHP Brooks Wilson, and RHP William Woods to the major league roster. The 40-man roster is now full.
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) November 18, 2021
I thought this would be the four, and I’m glad to see that, for once, I was right. If I had to make a prediction on who could get grabbed that were not protected, it would be Drew Lugbauer (after an INSANE AFL showing) or Daysbel Hernandez.
Who’s Out First?
Yes, the 40-man is full…but not really. There are soooooo many players that won’t be on the lucky 40 come March and most will likely be wearing another team’s uniform. Here are at least 10 that I think could possibly be replaced between now and March:
- Yoan Lopez
- Sean Newcomb
- Alan Rangel
- Richard Rodriguez
- Chadwick Tromp
- Orlando Arcia
- Johan Camargo
- Travis Demeritte
- Guillermo Heredia
- Jasseel De La Cruz
Breakdown: If I had to guess, here’s the pecking order of who I think might get the axe first.
- Chadwick Tromp: Backup catchers are a dime a dozen and this was a desperation move from last year.
- Camargo & Arcia: Due arb-raises, I cannot imagine they last until December.
- Yoan Lopez, Sean Newcomb, and Richard Rodriguez: Also due arb-raises and prime trade throw-in candidates as each possess real potential.
- Travis Demeritte: I put him last, not because I think he’s better than the aforementioned players, but because the Braves might not have the OF settled until February and I could see him outlast the others.
Left off: Jasseel De La Cruz, Guillermo Heredia, Alan Rangel: Both De La Cruz and Rangel are young and should have some time to show what they bring to the table after another year of seasoning. Like Demeritte, I think there’s a chance the Braves try to work something out with Heredia until the OF picture becomes clear. The MLB is really doing the Braves a disservice by not resolving the Marcell Ozuna situation.
What are your thoughts on the matter? Let’s hear it in the comments!
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