Braves sign $1.2M exciting prospect with Gold Glove potential, possible Michael Harris replacement

Hunter Cookston

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Braves sign $1.2M exciting prospect with Gold Glove potential, possible Michael Harris replacement image

The Atlanta Braves had a busy start to the offseason, but after addressing most of their key needs, activity around the organization has slowed down. Still, there are areas of improvement, particularly in the starting rotation, which could be crucial for the Braves’ playoff aspirations. Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos has made it clear the team is exploring options.

“We’ve explored the starting rotation, adding and getting some type of starter, whether that’s trade or signing. We’d like for it to be someone impactful, someone we think can start a playoff game,” Anthopoulos said.

Last season was a blur for the Braves, especially for Michael Harris, who struggled in the first half but found his rhythm in the second.

“Chipper told me it’s better to swing up to down than down to up, so being up there is a good thing. And I feel like everything’s been a lot cleaner since then and I haven’t had to think as much,” Harris said. “We were trying to find something and trying to get those hands in the right spot. And ultimately it came down to me just saying, all right, I’m just going to raise them up. It can’t hurt. I was doing it my whole life, so if I made the change to moving down after getting called up, why not be able to go back up now?”

However, due to Harris’s inconsistencies and injury concerns, the Braves recently added international prospect Starling De La Cruz.

“With De La Cruz, he is more of a hit-over-power speedy outfielder type. That does undersell him a bit as he does make hard contact and will hit some homers, but he is a bit on the smaller size right now and doesn't project to add all that much strength in the coming years. With his speed and instincts in the outfield, De La Cruz could also develop into a Gold Glove centerfielder if things break the right way,” HTHB’s Eric Cole wrote.

Harris now realizes there’s a prospect in the organization who could potentially challenge for playing time in the future. While Harris has outstanding defensive skills, if De La Cruz proves to have a stronger bat, the Braves won’t hesitate to consider him.

Although this is a development that may take time, it’s one to watch as De La Cruz progresses through the minors. Harris is looking for a breakout season, and the arrival of a talented prospect like De La Cruz may provide the motivation he needs to reach it.

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