Michael Soroka’s future in Atlanta seemed to go from questionable to doubtful when he suffered his season-ending right forearm injury in September. So the most intriguing decision the Braves have before Friday’s non-tender deadline focuses on Nicky Lopez.
Or maybe there really aren’t any tough decisions.
Count me among those who believe Lopez is worth the approximate $3.5 million to $4 million he could gain via the arbitration process. This is a high-energy, incredibly skilled backup infielder who has the potential to provide high-caliber defense at both middle-infield spots.
Second baseman Ozzie Albies has spent some time on the injured list over the past few seasons, and as shortstop Orlando Arcia faded down the stretch last year, he showed he could benefit from regular rest.
How about that issue of rest? Braves manager Brian Snitker was asked about this frequently this year and he repeatedly pointed out that most of his regulars wanted to play on an everyday basis. That’s all fine and dandy. But they don’t give purple hearts to players who play 162 games or close to it. And if they did, a player would rather have a World Series ring.
Now, before going too far down this rabbit hole, I don’t believe fatigue factored into the Braves' offense slumbering throughout this year’s National League Division Series. They had almost a whole week off between games. That’s the reason, right?
Quite honestly, by staging the three intrasquad games during that “bye week,” the Braves seemed to do all they could to stay focused and keep themselves acquainted with the speed of the game. Then Ranger Suárez happened. Or Suárez and a bunch of relievers happened.
One of the greatest offenses ever assembled was quieted in two Suárez-Spencer Strider matchups, during which Strider pitched like a frontline starter.