Atlanta Braves announce five-year contract for B.J. Upton - MLB Update
Finally, Atlanta Braves have officially declared their five-year deal amounting to $75.25 million with B.J. Upton.
Sources claimed a couple of days ago that Upton is on the verge of earning an expensive contract from Atlanta.
The Braves required a centerfielder after their regular player at this position Michael Bourn tested free agency. Filling this spot on the roster was one of the most important tasks that they had to perform in the offseason.
The deal with Upton has almost eliminated the chances that Atlanta will pursue Bourn.
Bourn will now look to entertain interests shown by other organisations for acquiring him. The agreement of Upton will help him in negotiations. He can fetch a contract similar to the one that Upton has earned from Atlanta, because both these players have
expertise in the same area.
What makes it even more likely to happen is the fact that Upton and Bourn are known for their speed and defensive capabilities. Any organisation which is engaged in talks with Bourn cannot overlook the agreement of Upton. Somehow that club will be modelling
the structure of the contract after the agreement of Upton.
After being named as member of the Braves, Upton has expressed his happiness. The warm reception he received as he met with officials of the club has made him feel being an important and a respected individual.
"I came in on that trip and really never felt like that before," Upton said. "They really made me feel like I was part of the Braves family. ... Bobby was great. It feels like I've known him for years. These guys, they got me. There's no other way to put
it. They had me when I came here and I left and I felt really good about it."
Upton is ready to fill the role of an outfielder in his new team. Atlanta sets high standards for their batters and fielders. Indeed, meeting them will be a challenge for Upton.
He will be looking to accept the responsibility and live up to the expectations of the club during the upcoming season.
It will be interesting to see how he becomes a part of a new culture and adjusts to the environment.
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