Braves linked to $4M, 4-time All-Star power bat with 265 HRs if Ha-Seong Kim or Ozzie Albies depart

Hunter Cookston

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Braves linked to $4M, 4-time All-Star power bat with 265 HRs if Ha-Seong Kim or Ozzie Albies depart image

The Atlanta Braves are heading into an offseason full of significant changes. One of the biggest shifts will come at the managerial position, which was widely expected. Brian Snitker has decided not to return as manager, stepping down after what was arguably the worst season of his tenure.

“Because of that consistent recent success, Snit would normally be afforded a ‘mulligan’ year—even though going from the second-best preseason World Series odds to possibly the third-best odds of winning the draft lottery is a pretty serious mulligan,” Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller wrote. “At 69, though, he's already the oldest manager in the National League by a several-year margin and was likely to retire at the end of this season, which is the last one in his current contract.”

Another major storyline surrounds Ha-Seong Kim and the uncertainty over his future. If he chooses not to opt in or re-sign with Atlanta, it could leave a major hole in the infield.

“Because of this thin market, that would incentivise Kim to test the market. For that same reason, it’s even more important that the Braves find a way to retain his services,” SI’s Harrison Smajovits wrote. “If he opts out and signs elsewhere, they could be back to square one with this dilemma. The offense has had its struggles as is, and they have, at least for now, figured out one of the issues.”

If a change is needed in the infield, the Braves could target Japanese superstar Munetaka Murakami, one of the most exciting international names expected to be available this winter.

“According to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, Japanese infielder Munetaka Murakami is expected to be posted for MLB teams this winter. One of the top power bats from the NPB is looking into bringing his talents stateside. Everything about his resume makes him a strong upgrade for the Braves' lineup, especially if either Ha-Seong Kim or Ozzie Albies exits the picture,” Smajovits wrote.

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The Braves’ middle infield has lacked consistent power recently. Ozzie Albies hasn’t been the same hitter he was earlier in his career, and if Kim doesn’t return, Atlanta could find itself back at square one offensively.

Murakami represents a strong option and one the Braves should seriously consider as the offseason unfolds.

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Hunter Cookston

Hunter Cookston began his career as a sportswriter for the Marion Tribune, where he covered local high school football, basketball and baseball. His passion for sports started at the age of four when he played his first year of tee ball. Growing up in Tennessee, he developed a deep love for the Tennessee Volunteers and Atlanta Braves. Hunter is currently attending Tennessee Wesleyan University, where he is pursuing a BA in Sports Communications/Management.