Needs and Luxuries: Atlanta Braves

Let’s take a look at the Braves’ needs and luxuries (many requests for this one).  Click here and scroll down to read other entries in the series.

C – Brian McCann
1B – Mark Teixeira
2B – Kelly Johnson
SS – Yunel Escobar
3B – Chipper Jones
LF – Matt Diaz/Brandon Jones
CF – Josh Anderson/Jordan Schafer
RF – Jeff Francoeur

SP – John Smoltz
SP – Tim Hudson
SP – Tom Glavine
SP – Chuck James
SP – Jair Jurrjens/Jo-Jo Reyes/Mike Hampton/Jeff Bennett

Setup – Peter Moylan
Closer – Rafael Soriano

Needs:

I think we have to view center field as a need for the Braves.  The 2007 Major League Equivalency for Josh Anderson: .223/.257/.277. When a guy can barely crack a .700 OPS in the minors he’s obviously not big league material.  Schafer hasn’t played above High A ball yet.  Even with strong defense he seems a reach right now.

Mike Cameron seems like a great fit for these Braves, even if they have to give him a two-year deal.

Assuming Frank Wren’s bullpen remains respectable I don’t see any other needs for this team.  They’re in very good shape.

Luxuries:

The Braves have a strong offense and a respectable-looking rotation.  They seem to have a decent fifth-starter competition going. However I would not go as far as to call pitching a luxury (James should not be dealt).  After giving up a lot of prospects to get Teixeira, I also probably would not look to trade for a veteran starter or center fielder and further damage the farm system.

To sum it up, just sign Cameron and go for it.