Earlier this offseason, David O’ Brien of the Athletic reported that the Braves have discussed the possibility of offering a contract to free agent outfielder A.J. Pollock. (subscription required)
One month later, and Buster Olney is making it sound like it has some serious traction:
ATL continues to be in discussions on OF A.J. Pollock, among other FA OF. If they got him, their lineup could look something like this, depending on where Acuna bats:
LF Acuna
3B Donaldson
1B Freeman
RF Pollock
2B Albies
CF Inciarte
C Flowers/McCann
SS Swanson— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) January 10, 2019
The Carter Stewart decision in ATL's favor means that the Braves would need to give up their second pick (about No. 62), rather than their third-round pick, if they sign A.J. Pollock, who is tied to pick compensation.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) January 10, 2019
Maybe it’s just me, but throwing around this theoretical gives the illusion that this rumor is pretty legitimate in Olney’s mind. Just do not forget that Alex Anthopoulos is like a silent killer when making moves, no rumors typically attached.
Pollock was one of the most valuable players in baseball around the time the Braves made the Dansby Swanson trade that is now infamous out in the desert. This is proof of just how fast a player’s value can fall due to a battle with injuries.
There is no denying Pollock is still an incredible talent. However, injuries have limited Pollock to playing over 140 games once in his seven-year career.
Obviously, this does not bode well for him when being viewed by general managers as a long-term investment.
Pollock would fill the Braves need and the outfield, and provide an upgrade, but given his injury history heading into his 30’s, as well as his attachment to a compensatory pick, this would be a high-risk, high reward signing for Atlanta.
However, with the offseason waning away, Pollock is likely the best option available for Atlanta without giving up an absurd amount of talent from the farm. The Braves have also been linked to J.T. Realmuto.
Personally, I am wary of what it would take financially and prospect-wise to acquire one of these great players. But if they could pull off both moves, I think it would be worth it, as the Braves would become a consensus favorite for the division and a legitimate contender.