B.J. Upton signs five-year $75.25 million contract with Atlanta Braves – MLB News
Outfielder B.J. Upton and Atlanta Braves are on the verge of officially announcing the first big news coming off from free agency this year. As per reports, both parties have settled the terms and conditions. They are ready to formally reveal five-year contract
worth $75.25 million.
Upton was a part of the speculations a couple of days ago that he will soon clinch an agreement with one of the interested organisations. Two teams, namely the Philadelphia Phillies and the Braves, were reported to be pursuing him.
Finally, Upton has decided to join the Braves, despite the fact that the Phillies were equally poised to offer him an extravagant deal.
It is not known yet as to how much the Phillies were willing to grant him in the contract but it is for sure that they tried their best to have Upton in the team.
The Phillies desperately need outfielders. With Shane Victorino not available, they have a vacant spot on the roster. Upton was in many ways fulfilling their criteria. His speed and immaculate defensive skills were to be of great help to the Phillies.
The Phillies have no choice left now but seek other options present in the free agent market. They can contact Michael Bourn, who played last season with Atlanta.
Bourn also has all that the Phillies are looking for. Though not an ideal option offensively, for base stealing and making fine plays in the field, he can turn out to be a utility player.
With the acquisition of Upton, chances that the Braves will retain their former centre fielder Bourn have almost diminished.
Bourn can search some other organisations now and find the place for his future.
Deep in his heart, he can take pleasure from the deal between Atlanta and Upton, because a benchmark price has been established, which he can use in negotiations with his prospective teams to fetch a better contract.
According to the reports, the Braves will officially declare their new agreement soon.
It will be interesting to see how this contract affects the outfield market and sets the tone for future negotiations.
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