Bullpen Boost: Braves Unveil Spring Training Invitees, Featuring Exciting New Arms!
The Atlanta Braves have announced their non-roster spring training invitees, and the list is filled with intriguing bullpen arms that could make a significant impact on the team’s relief corps. The Braves’ front office has been busy this offseason, making moves to bolster the team’s pitching staff, and these invitees are just the latest example of their efforts.
Among the notable invitees are several relievers who have impressed in the minor leagues or have previous major league experience. These pitchers will have the opportunity to showcase their skills in front of the Braves’ coaching staff and potentially earn a spot on the team’s Opening Day roster.
One of the most intriguing invitees is right-hander, Tyler Matzek. Matzek, a former first-round draft pick, has struggled with injuries throughout his career but has shown flashes of brilliance when healthy. In 2020, he posted a 2.79 ERA in 19 appearances for the Braves’ Triple-A affiliate, striking out 24 batters in 19.1 innings.
Another reliever to keep an eye on is left-hander, Thomas Burrows. Burrows, a former fourth-round draft pick, has been one of the most dominant relievers in the Braves’ minor league system over the past two seasons. In 2020, he posted a 1.54 ERA in 35 appearances, striking out 53 batters in 41.1 innings.
The Braves have also invited several relievers with previous major league experience, including right-handers, Shane Greene and Heath Hembree. Greene, a former All-Star, has struggled with injuries over the past two seasons but has shown the ability to be a dominant force in the bullpen when healthy. Hembree, a veteran reliever, has appeared in parts of eight major league seasons, posting a 3.70 ERA in 251 appearances.
In addition to these relievers, the Braves have also invited several position players to spring training, including outfielder, Travis Demeritte, and infielder, Ryan Goins. Demeritte, a former first-round draft pick, has struggled to find consistency at the plate but has shown flashes of power and speed. Goins, a veteran infielder, has appeared in parts of seven major league seasons, posting a .228 batting average in 444 games.
What to Expect from the Braves’ Non-Roster Invitees
While it’s difficult to predict which of these non-roster invitees will ultimately make the Braves’ Opening Day roster, there are several factors that could work in their favor.
First and foremost, the Braves’ bullpen is far from set, with several spots up for grabs. The team has already lost several relievers from last year’s roster, including Mark Melancon and Darren O’Day, and will need to find replacements for these players.
Additionally, the Braves have a history of finding hidden gems among their non-roster invitees. In recent years, players like Josh Tomlin and Charlie Culberson have gone from being non-roster invitees to becoming key contributors for the team.
Finally, the Braves’ coaching staff has a reputation for being able to get the most out of their players. Under the guidance of manager Brian Snitker and pitching coach Rick Kranitz, the Braves’ non-roster invitees will have the opportunity to refine their skills and showcase their abilities.
Conclusion
The Braves’ non-roster spring training invitees offer a fascinating glimpse into the team’s plans for the upcoming season. With several intriguing bullpen arms and position players in the mix, there’s a good chance that one or more of these invitees could make a significant impact on the team’s roster.
As the Braves prepare to begin spring training, fans will be eagerly watching to see which of these non-roster invitees will emerge as contenders for a spot on the team’s Opening Day roster. With a talented group of players and a coaching staff that knows how to get the most out of them, the Braves are poised to make a deep run in the playoffs once again.