It seems like I’ve been beating this drum forever, but I think Michael Conforto would be a good pickup for the Braves. He’s a solid left-handed bat with some pop, but he apparently underwent shoulder surgery right after the lockout and did not sign with a team. Now, he’s reportedly gaining more interest:
Per @JonHeyman, FA OF Michael Conforto is drawing interest from “four very good teams” following the completion of the MLB draft.
Conforto was offered a qualifying offer, which attaches draft pick compensation to his deal. With the draft over teams can sign him w/o losing a pick
— MLB Trade Deadline (@MLBDeadlineNews) July 20, 2022
I could absolutely see the Braves being one of the interested clubs. For starters, Alex Anthopoulos loves to kick the tires and see what type of deal he can get. Anthopoulos also loves one-year deals, which is likely all that Conforto could get right now. Additionally, while Eddie Rosario has been better since returning, the Braves could absolutely use another outfield bat. He could platoon with Adam Duvall, who has struggled mightily at the plate. Conforto has a career .803 OPS against right-handed pitching, while Duvall is only putting up a .620 OPS against righties.
Regardless, this feels like a risk-free move if it’s only a one-year deal. With the Braves having a depleted farm system, this is one way to add an impact bat without giving anything up. Michael Conforto could be great for the Braves.
—
Photographer: Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire
—
Have you checked out the latest SportsTalkATL podcast?
You must log in to post a comment.