According to David O’ Brien of the Athletic, the Braves have discussed the possibility of offering a contract to free agent outfielder A.J. Pollock. (subscription required)
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 has incredible talent. However, injuries have limited Pollock to playing over 140 games just 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 fill the outfield, and would provide an upgrade. However, a risk-averse GM should only be willing to give him three years at a maximum, with $15 million being the highest AAV they will go. Given Pollock’s injury history heading into his 30’s, as well as his attachment to a compensatory pick, makes him a stay away for me, but that is obviously just a personal opinion.
Regardless, this makes for an intriguing rumor.