Seventh Inning Stretch

Feb 23, 2013 by Jimmy Dugan+

The Atlanta Braves go into the 2013 hoping their off season moves makes them as sizzling as this attractive young-lady slipping off Hammering Hank Aaron’s long-retired number 44.

Having lost future Hall of Famer Chipper Jones to retirement and All-star center-fielder Michael Borne to free agency, Braves management had a big gap to fill as they start their 17^th season in Turner field and their 48^th season in Atlanta.

But fill it they did.  Acquiring B. J. and Justin Upton via free agency and a trade, the Braves hope the two brothers, together with homegrown slugger and rightfielder Jason Heyward will be a dynamic force in the field and at the plate for years to come.

Chris Johnson, a second generation major leaguer acquired in a trade with the Diamondbacks, will attempt to fill Jones’ very big cleats at third.  Johnson’s questionable defensive skills though make it likely the career .276 hitter will share third-base duties with left-handed hitting Juan Francisco.

The outfield trio coupled with a solid rotation and one of the best bullpens in the major should be what 4^th year manager Fredi Gonzales needs to guide the Braves not just to the post season for their second year in a row but, if everyone stays healthy, all the way to the World Series.