Departure of David Ross from Atlanta Braves adds to their workload during offseason-MLB Update
After Boston Red Sox signed a deal with catcher David Ross, workload of the Atlanta Braves during the offseason has increased. Ross played as back-up catcher for Atlanta during 2012 regular season while in many occasions acting as replacement of Brian McCann.
McCann is passing through such a phase of his career that he can be regarded as unreliable at the moment.
He was dull and down throughout the last season. Affected by injuries, he could not deliver the kind of offensive shows that he is capable of.
Just recently, he underwent surgery in an attempt to remove issues with his shoulder once and for all.
Right now, he is going through a lengthy rehabilitation process. Ross is expected to begin playing regular baseball within a couple of months.
However, it is uncertain whether he will be healthy enough to be put on an Opening Day roster for 2013 regular season or not. According to the reports, he may have to miss initial few months of the season.
Against this backdrop, potential problems in the catching department of the Braves can be realised. This fact will be in the mind of their officials.
Besides addressing other areas, they will be looking to add back-up catchers on the roster while doing some shopping from the market.
Absence of Ross from their team has necessitated such an action from their part. They can either explore their own farm system or visit the free agency to find someone that meets the requirements.
David was part of an unsuccessful campaign of the Braves during the playoffs. He was so impressive in the games that he played as replacement for McCann as he was added in the line-up for Wild Card Game against St. Louis Cardinals.
Interestingly enough, he contributed offensively with a home-run in such an important match.
Certainly, his exclusion from Atlanta will hurt their preparations for the 2013 regular season.
Apart from catching department, the Braves confront other vacant spots on their roster that are to be filled. For example, retirement of Chipper Jones means that his successor who can be equally reliable at third base is needed.
It will be interesting to observe the decisions taken by Atlanta during the offseason for streamlining their roster.
Tags: