Braves Sign Star Outfielder Marcell Ozuna to One-Year Deal
By Karl Rasmussen
The Atlanta Braves failed to bring back Josh Donaldson, but that didn't dissuade the team in its pursuit of a big-name free agent.
And on Tuesday, the Braves managed to bounce back and land arguably the best outfielder on the open market. Per ESPN's Jeff Passan, the Braves and Marcell Ozuna are in agreement on a one-year, $18 million deal.
Outfielder Marcell Ozuna and the Atlanta Braves are in agreement on one-year, $18 million contract, sources familiar with the deal tell ESPN.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) January 21, 2020
As a member of the Cardinals in 2019, Ozuna slashed .241/.328/.472 and hit 29 home runs in 130 games. He drove in 89 RBI and swiped 12 bases as well.
The two-time All-Star and one-time Gold Glove winner will likely slot in at left field, where he's spent most of his time since joining the Cardinals.
#Braves Sign OF Marcell Ozuna: pic.twitter.com/HjXjrPGSRk
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) January 22, 2020
The 29-year-old is the perfect consolation prize after failing to lure Josh Donaldson back to Atlanta. He'll provide some additional pop in the lineup, while also presenting little risk considering its just a one-year deal.
The Braves, and Ozuna, will be hoping he can rediscover his All-Star form that he displayed in Miami. A big year from the slugger could help fuel a deep run in the playoffs for Atlanta, as well as set himself up for a lucrative contract in the following offseason.