Evan Gattis Likely To Be Moved With Atlanta Braves’ Signing Of A.J. Pierzynski
Mark Rebilas – USA Today
While the Frank Wren regime was a complete disaster for the Atlanta Braves during his seven-year tenure, what GM John Hart has done in a few short months is shaping up to be a pleasant surprise for Braves fans.
As a last-minute Christmas gift, the Braves acquired veteran and former All-Star catcher A.J. Pierzynski by signing him to a one-year deal on Christmas Eve. Pierzynski is as well respected in the baseball community as anyone, and pairing him with 23-year-old Christian Bethancourt is sure to pay dividends for the up and coming star catcher.
Now that just leaves one question that Braves fans need an answer to: Where does that leave Evan Gattis? As for now, this move undoubtedly places Gattis in the void in left field that Justin Upton left when he was traded to the San Diego Padres. However, there’s just one problem: Gattis’ outfield ability is as excruciating to watch as Steve Carell’s chest hair removal in ‘The 40-Year-Old Virgin.’
As an offensive player, Gattis is perfect for any ball club. He provides immediate power which opposing pitchers must respect. This in turn makes life easier for whoever hits in front of him. His defense has unfortunately never quite caught up to his offense as he is at best an average defensive catcher … and a complete train wreck in left field. If your eyes can take it, please watch him in the NLDS against the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2013.
For these reasons alone, it is almost a sure thing the Braves will be looking to move Gattis before the season starts, and an AL suitor with an open DH job would be the perfect fit for the popular Gattis. Whoever represents Gattis needs to ensure this happens for the sake of his playing career.
Based on the moves Hart has made in recent weeks, the writing is indeed on the wall, and all signs point to Gattis being moved at some point this offseason. If the Braves can find a quality outfielder and quite possibly one who can fill the leadoff role, Hart could possibly put the Braves in position to have a decent season.
Brandon Williams is an Atlanta Braves writer for www.RantSports.com. You can follow him on Twitter, @BfreshAlum4UA, “Like” him on Facebook, or add him to your network on Google.
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