Earlier today, it was reported that the Atlanta Braves have signed B.J. Upton to a five-year deal worth roughly $75 million. The Braves had tabbed Upton as their top free agent target this winter, and it seems like they have their man.
B.J. Upton to the Braves, and the fans are happy
The Atlanta Braves have reportedly signed center fielder B.J. Upton to a five-year contract worth around $75 million. Braves’ fans seem generally optimistic about the deal.
Kim Klement-US PRESSWIRE
Braves’ fans seem to be taking the news positively, as the folks over at SBNation’s Braves’ affiliate, Talking Chop, have reacted rather well. Some have voiced displeasure, though.
Head-writer gondeee likes the balance that Upton will bring to the Braves’ lineup:
"He (Upton) brings with him a rare speed and power combo that will match well with Jason Heyward in the outfield and in the middle of the order. He is also right-handed, which is a big reason the Braves targeted him -- needing a right-handed bat in the middle of the order to balance out the left-handedness of Heyward, Freddie Freeman, and Brian McCann."
Here are some of the reactions from commenters:
It was gonna cost a lot to get even an average CF in free agency. If he gets better with coaching, this could be a great deal. If he doesn’t get better it is a mediocre, but necessary deal.
I am completely cool with this.
I am considering unbanning Chopmaster. What do you think? :-)
I like this signing. I could very well be wrong, but I just have this feeling that bossman junior might turn the page here. Plus given the possibilities out on the market, I think this was the best choice. If he gives us what he’s been giving it’s market value, but if he starts capitalizing on his actual potential it could be a steal.
Everyone seems to be coming around... Well I'm not Doug!
Dont get me wrong, Upton is a good player, but the Braves just cant afford to give guys like this 15 million dollars a year. Especially one already trending downward.
This will be Dan Uggla part 2. Good thing we have all our money tied up with the two guys who will be near the bottom of the league in OBP, and top of the league in Ks
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Mixed feelings
Upton has incredible talent. Have to hope that a change of scenery combined with a veteran clubhouse makes this work. If we end up with .240/.330/.440 and 160k (even with 20HR and 20SB) for the next five years, it will make this contract very difficult to stomach. Could be another Andruw circa 2007.
by fylr71 on Nov 28, 2012 6:44 PM EST reply actions