The talk of the Braves offseason will surround Dansby Swanson. Hopefully, the drama won’t last too long, but I have a feeling we won’t be so lucky. Every team with a hole in their middle infield will be courting the Braves shortstop, and Swanson has earned the right to take his time and make the decision he feels is best for him and his family. However, Swanson is far from the only free agent the Braves will be looking to retain. Kenley Jansen is another valuable piece that is set to test the waters of unrestricted free agency for the second year in a row, and so is Adam Duvall, but Luke Jackson is the under-the-radar free agent I believe the Braves will be looking to bring back on a short term deal.
Following a career year in 2021, Jackson was set to once again be a vital piece to Atlanta’s bullpen in 2022. Unfortunately, his season ended before it ever began as he underwent a successful Tommy John surgery in April. The Braves bullpen did just fine without him, but that doesn’t mean they wouldn’t have been even better with him in the fold.
Given that Jackson’s Tommy John surgery took place early in the season, he should be ready to go around Spring Training in 2023, and I think it’s most likely that he’s looking for a one-year, prove-it contract. That should work perfectly for the Braves, who love short-term deals and also appreciate how much Luke Jackson brings to the clubhouse. Alex Anthopoulos said the Braves will definitely keep in contact with him this offseason.
Anthopouos said Soroka and Ian A. are under club control, didn't indicate any question about them returning. Said would "definitely" keep channels open with FA Luke Jackson, who spent entire season with team while rehabbing, even made some trips, because of his value to clubhouse
— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) October 16, 2022
To me, bringing Jackson back is a no-brainer. The Braves are likely to lose Kenley Jansen. Jesse Chavez is also a free agent and could choose to retire. On top of that, Tyler Matzek will miss all of next season after recently undergoing Tommy John surgery. Atlanta needs to replenish their bullpen and retaining a familiar face is a great place to start. Providing he’s healthy, I hope the Braves bring back Jackson for another season.
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