The Braves have now cut their two highest paid players
The Atlanta Braves came into spring training knowing they’d have to make some difficult roster decisions. They probably didn’t anticipate parting with their two most expensive players though, but that’s exactly how things played out.
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On Thursday, the team released veteran outfielder Nick Swisher and his $15 million salary, making him a free agent. On Saturday, the $14 million salary of Michael Bourn was ticketed to follow him after president of baseball operations John Hart and manager Fredi Gonzalez determined he was no longer a fit for their roster. Bourn was officially designated for assignment, meaning he could still end up traded.
That’s $29 million worth of cuts in less than 48 hours, or roughly 36 percent of their $81.2 million payroll. The number actually tops $30 million when you include Emilio Bonifacio. The veteran infielder was also designated for assignment on Saturday. He’s due $1.25 million this season.
Of course, some of Swisher’s and Bourn’s salaries will be paid by the Indians, who signed both players before trading them to Atlanta for Chris Johnson last season. But it’s not so much what the Braves owe as it is the sheer money that was tied in two players who couldn’t win a job.
The well paid veterans were beat out by Ender Iciarte, who was acquired from Arizona in the Shelby Miller, and Hector Olivera, the Dodgers splashy signing from last season who failed to make an impact. Olivera was acquired in a three-team deal that also involved the Miami Marlins. The Braves outfield will be completed by the veteran trio of Nick Markakis, Drew Stubbs and Jeff Francoeur.
Yes, that Jeff Francoeur.
Though considered a rebuilding team, the Braves have several veterans in the Francoeur mold on their roster. Guys like Kelly Johnson, Jim Johnson and A.J. Pierzynski, who are there today but could be gone tomorrow if another team shows interest. Sooner or later, the Braves will have to make room for a new and younger core, so many of these players are considered expandable.
None of them were paid as handsomely as Swisher and Bourn though, so their departures wouldn’t make quite as much noise.
What’s interesting now is look to at the possible landing spots for both players. Bourn, in particular, could be an interesting fit with the Arizona Diamondbacks, who just lost A.J. Pollock to a broken elbow. There’s a possibility his season is over before it started, meaning Arizona could seek a veteran presence to help fill that void.
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As for Swisher, he’s a guy who can play first base and corner outfield. Those aren’t that difficult to come by, but not many have had nine straight seasons with 20 or more home runs like Swisher did from 2005-2013. If healthy, he can provide some pop.
The funny thing is, despite being cut by Atlanta in somewhat embarrassing fashion, it’s conceivable both players will end up being difference makers elsewhere this season. At this point, it’s all about opportunity, because we’re sure motivation won’t be an issue.
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Mark Townsend is a writer for Big League Stew on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Townie813
