3 Free Agents Braves Should Definitely Pass on This Offseason

The core of the Atlanta Braves is set and full of talent, but GM Alex Anthopoulos will be very busy this winter, because they have some massive holes to fill.

While the Braves usually don't spend big money in free agency, that could change this offseason when you consider they need a starting pitcher or two, bullpen help, a catcher, and maybe some additions at third base and in the corner outfield spots.

However, while managing their extensive budget, here are three free agents the Braves should definitely pass on this offseason.

3. C Jonathan Lucroy

With Brian McCann retiring, the Braves obviously need a replacement at catcher. You figure they'll pick up Tyler Flowers' option, but they aren't going to have him start on an everyday basis. Yasmani Grandal is the top catcher on the market, but if they aren't willing to spend big money to get him, they have to look elsewhere. The catcher market is thin, but the next best thing in free agency might be former All-Star Jonathan Lucroy, who they should not be tempted by. Lucroy is not the same player he was with the Brewers, and he's been on a steady decline since 2016. Maybe playing for the team that's close to home is just what he needs, but the Braves can't afford to take that kind of risk now that it's all about winning and windows. Look at the evidence. Lucroy isn't the answer.

2. SS Didi Gregorius

Former No. 1 overall pick Dansby Swanson is a fan favorite in Atlanta, but for the third straight season, he's been a below league average offensive player. He can pick it, which brings plenty of value, but time is running out for him as an everyday player with the Braves, which could lead to Anthopoulos looking to replace him. How about free agent Didi Gregorius, who thrived as a member of the Yankees? Nope. He isn't the answer, and Anthopoulos shouldn't even consider it, even if he's thinking about upgrading the shortstop position. Gregorius' offense is trending downwards, and without the clutch gene to save him in 2019, things got ugly in New York. His time post-Tommy John surgery was marred with weaker contact than Swanson's season.

1. OF Yasiel Puig

The Braves could keep the status quo in their outfield and stick with internal options. However, it's not out of the question that they look to make a huge upgrade and add a power bat to one of the corner outfield spots in place of Nick Markakis. If they go down this route, they should stay away from Yasiel Puig, even though he's a 20-homer guy and has a bazooka for an arm. You just don't always know what you're going to get from Puig, and it's not like he fits the history of the franchise, from a personality standpoint. Manager Brian Snitker has already benched Ronald Acunña Jr. for not hustling. What do you think he'll do with Puig and his antics?