The Atlanta Braves have been active in the offseason by signing outfielder Alex Verdugo to a one-year contract worth $1.5 million, following their recent acquisition of pitcher Craig Kimbrel. Verdugo's performance has fluctuated over the past two seasons, having posted a modest batting average with the Yankees. However, he brings defensive skills to the team, being a reliable player in all outfield positions. Soon after the signing was confirmed, Verdugo was optioned to Triple-A Gwinnett, as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
Alex Verdugo has had a rough go of it at the plate over his past two seasons - he only hit .233/.291/.356 with a .283 wOBA and 83 wRC+ for the Yankees last season and that was after he finished his last season with the Red Sox with a .264/.324/.421 slash line, .322 wOBA and 98 wRC+.
However, he did provide some value with his glove as he finished last season with an Outs Above Average of 2 (good for being placed in the 77th percentile in that metric) and he has a cannon for an arm.
Having a reliable defender who can play all three outfield positions as a backup should come in handy for the long season ahead and it appears that that will be the role for Verdugo as he joins his third team in three seasons.
Shortly after news of the deal broke, the Braves confirmed it on their Twitter account and also noted that he's already been optioned to the Gwinnett Stripers.
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