HoF [REDACTED] v2.0: FUCK...We suck again!

Discussion in 'The Mainboard' started by One Man Wolfpack, Jul 2, 2016.

  1. Where Eagles Dare

    Where Eagles Dare The Specialist Show On Earth
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    This is my version if taking a knee
     
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  2. Hewwow

    Hewwow Well-Known Member

    Rosenthal says our breach of rules is "unprecedented in scope" but it's behind a paywall: http://fb.me/Df9zZgAB
     
  3. SC

    SC I’m boring and I’m bored
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    Two big questions linger as baseball investigates the Atlanta Braves’ illegal conduct in their signings of international amateurs: How severely will the Braves be penalized? And will John Hart, the team’s president of baseball operations, retain his position?

    If Hart departs the Braves might turn to Kansas City Royals general manager Dayton Moore, who worked for Atlanta from 1994 to 2006, rising to assistant GM. But according to sources with knowledge of the investigation, baseball has no current information linking Hart to the “breach of rules” in the international market the Braves cited when they announced the resignation of general manager John Coppolella on Oct. 2.

    Gordon Blakeley, a special assistant to Coppolella, also resigned, and a number of other changes in the Braves’ international and scouting departments are expected, including the departure of Alex Cotto, the team’s director of international administration, sources say. The Braves’ violations are unprecedented in scope, sources say, and baseball’s penalties almost certainly will reflect the extent of the team’s wrongdoing.

    Many in the industry find it difficult to believe that Hart had no knowledge of the actions of Coppolella, Blakeley and others. Baseball has yet to interview Hart, who is running the Braves’ organizational meetings, sources say. But even if the commissioner’s office determines Hart was not an active participant in the Braves’ transgressions, it could find that he failed to exercise proper oversight over the organization. Hart declined to comment for this article.

    It is unlikely that Hart would be disciplined for such neglect but baseball might cite a lack of institutional control when assessing how harshly to penalize the club, sources say. The penalties might include a substantial fine, a loss of prospects and restrictions on the Braves’ participation in the international market.

    The Boston Red Sox were penalized in July 2016 for using so-called “package deals”—funneling money to highly regarded players through the signings of lesser ones—to stay under their spending limits. Baseball voided the contracts of five players signed by the Red Sox, making them free agents, and also banned the team from signing international amateurs who were subject to baseball’s bonus pools in 2016-17.

    As the Braves attempt to move forward, conducting meetings in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., their organization remains in flux. Hart will hire a new GM, assuming he remains with the club, while others in the organization might change positions.

    Dom Chiti, the team’s director of pitching, is expected to be named farm director, sources say. The Braves, however, still have not officially announced the move, and for a time discussed assigning Chiti to another position with the club, perhaps with the major-league coaching staff. If Chiti is not farm director, an opening would exist for the promotion of assistant farm director Jonathan Schuerholz, the son of Hall of Fame Braves executive John Schuerholz.

    The Braves also have yet to reveal the composition of manager Brian Snitker’s coaching staff after announcing on Oct. 4 that they would exercise Snitker’s option for 2018. Bench coach Terry Pendleton and first base coach Eddie Perez are unlikely to return, and the status of pitching coach Chuck Hernandez is also under discussion, sources say. The Braves, however, might be reluctant to change pitching coaches for the second time in two years after firing Roger McDowell at the end of the 2016 season.
     
  4. Sterling A

    Sterling A Well-Known Member

    Dave Cameron is pretty down on the braves rebuild at this point. Where do you see the franchise at, especially considering the scandal? What would you do this offseason in Atlanta?

    Jeff Sullivan
    This is going to be an offseason of licking their wounds. They're going to be penalized pretty heavily

    Dave and I are of a similar opinion -- neither one of us is all that fond of a rebuild built around high-risk young pitchers. At least Acuna and Albies are present

    I think the Braves are still a few years away. Might be behind the Phillies
     
  5. Nug

    Nug MexicanNug
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    Well that's fucking discouraging
     
  6. Nug

    Nug MexicanNug
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    Alabama Crimson TideSeattle MarinersAtlanta BravesNew Orleans Saints

    #fakenews
     
  7. Arkadin

    Arkadin inefficiently efficent and unclearly clear
    Donor

    Aren't all young pitchers high risk in today's environment
     
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  8. Sterling A

    Sterling A Well-Known Member

    yes, they are saying its better to rebuild with position players like the Astros, Cubs, Yankees, etc... instead the high risk of pitchers
     
  9. Arkadin

    Arkadin inefficiently efficent and unclearly clear
    Donor

    But we've been doing that, too.
     
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  10. Gregor

    Gregor The League of Morons

    :cmonson:
     
  11. FightingCock

    FightingCock Smoltzy, 2 dollar bourbon, Bluehose
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    We've got at least 12 pitching prospects for a 5 man rotation and a ton of relief possibilities. It's not like we are pinning hopes on 3 guys to lead us like prior and wood.
     
  12. Where Eagles Dare

    Where Eagles Dare The Specialist Show On Earth
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    I hate the comparison to teams that have pay rolls twice ours and claim the rebuilt isn't going the right way.

    Yeah, it would be nice to have all our bats hit at the same time and then drop 160 million in Jon Lester to anchor our SP rotation.

    That's never gonna happen
     
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  13. Sterling A

    Sterling A Well-Known Member

    Don't bring thought provoking stats into this. Not fair
     
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  14. Sterling A

    Sterling A Well-Known Member

    Atlanta Braves’ ideal offseason spending plan


    [​IMG]




    The Braves are in dire need of an upgrade or two if they’re looking to compete in 2018, and thankfully, they’ve got the money to do so this offseason. There are several positions that could get an upgrade, but with limited flexibility in the team’s payroll, there may not be enough money to satisfy all.

    According to the legendary Braves Options Guy, the Atlanta Braves will be spending roughly $93.7 million taking care of guys that are either already under contract, arbitration eligible, or pre-arbitration eligible.

    This figure takes into account only R.A. Dickey‘s $500k buyout (likely), as well as the assumed non-tender statuses of Ian Krol, Danny Santana and Jace Peterson(hopefully).

    It’s safe to say that $130 million is a reasonable payroll figure for the Braves to start the 2018 season, which is just under their $135 million in total payroll for 2017. That gives the Braves, (again, roughly) $36.3 million to spend however they’d like in an attempt to become contenders once again.

    How can the Atlanta Braves use this money to turn their 72-90 club into playoff contenders?

    First things first
    Matt Adams and Jim Johnson are two guys I just don’t see fitting into Atlanta’s plans, and the Braves could save about $8 million trading the two this off-season for what I’d assume would be league minimum-value returns. Adams’ arbitration value is estimated to be around $4.6 million, and Johnson is slotted to make $4.5 million in 2018. Dumping these salaries off is a must.

    Assuming Atlanta can rid themselves of Jim Johnson and get Matt Adams to a team where he’ll get more playing time, their spending total this off-season jumps up to about $44.3 million, which allows for a bit more flexibility.

    Now, let’s get to business.
    The Atlanta Braves have a lengthy to-do list this off-season. They’ve got to make room for Ronald Acuña to start games in the outfield, figure out who’s going to be playing third base and assess the rotation and bullpen (and make changes to either, if necessary).

    Oh, and they’ve got to find a general manager.

    In making room for Ronald Acuña, the Braves will have to rid themselves of either Nick Markakis or Matt Kemp. Now, who do you want in your outfield: A guy who played 160 games last year and hit 39 doubles, or a guy who played in 115 games in a 2017 season plagued by hamstring issues and weight gain? I’ll take ‘Nicky Singles’, as some have called Markakis, every single time.

    There’s no way around it: Matt Kemp needs to go, but it’ll cost money.

    Getting Kemp Traded
    First, let’s take a look at Matt Kemp’s contract, so there’s no confusion.

    Yes, Kemp is making $21.75 million in 2018. However, the Braves are only ‘on the hook’ for $19 million of that for both 2018 and 2019. The other $2.75 million is being paid by the Dodgers as part of the deal that sent Kemp to the Padres.

    Now, the Braves could eat $19 million in 2018 and again in 2019 to ensure that Kemp gets traded, but there are American League teams that would be willing to pay Matt Kemp to DH for them. The ideal situation would be for Atlanta to pay a team $10 million a year to take Kemp off their hands, be content with a lesser prospect return, and have Ronald Acuña starting in their outfield.

    Matt Kemp would be a great fit with the Kansas City Royals. The Royals had the fewest hits, doubles and RBI among AL teams from the DH position. If Kemp can get his weight under control again this off season, he could be just as effective as Kendrys Morales, if not better, and he wouldn’t have to worry about lumbering around in left field putting extra strain on his hamstrings.

    Regardless of where they send him, if the Braves can spend $10 million to get Matt Kemp traded, they’re in a good position to do some big spending elsewhere this off-season with about $34 million to spend.

    Who’s on third?
    I don’t want Todd Frazier. I don’t want Mike Moustakas. Give me two years of Zack Cozart for $28 million. The 32-year-old had his best season yet in 2017, slashing .297/.385/.548 with 24 homers and 24 doubles in 122 games. 2017 was likely an outlier for Cozart offensively, but he’s been a great defender throughout his entire career.

    After a season like 2017, regression is expected for Cozart, but he won’t fall all the way back down to his post-2017 .246 career average. He’s got the potential to at least be a .260-.270 guy with 20 homers, without a doubt. Some guys figure the game out later in their careers, and that’s absolutely the case with Zack Cozart.

    However, I realize that trying to sign a shortstop to play 3rd base is a bit of a stretch.

    With that being said, there isn’t a single free agent third baseman in my mind that the Braves could get without potentially paying him more than he’s worth.

    • Moustakas is 29, and he’ll be looking for a big payday, and likely something long-term.
    • Todd Frazier isn’t even worth the $12 million he made this season, but he’ll be looking for $15 million a year or more.
    If the Braves want to pursue a solid, short-term third base option, their best bet may very well be to find a trade partner this off-season. Fred mentioned one in particular this last weekend: Jedd Gyorko. I like Jedd Gyorko. He’s affordable, the Braves have a surplus of prospects to trade, and the three years left on his contract make him tradable once Austin Riley is called up.

    The Braves could be paying Gyorko the $9 million he’s owed in 2018, or they could pay as much as $15 million elsewhere, but that’s as much as I’d spend. Even spending $15 million would give the Braves $19 million to assess pitching, which is more than enough to grab a pair of solid arms.

    Adding some versatility
    Let’s be very honest: The 2017 Atlanta Braves’ bullpen was more of an emotional roller coaster than Marley & Me (if you didn’t cry, you’re lying). There were bright spots, but there were also Jim Johnson, Rex Brothers and Ian Krol. It’s time for Atlanta to put together a bullpen that can hold up over the course of an entire season, and it all starts with a familiar face coming back home.

    After battling injuries in 2015 and 2016, Mike Minor returned to the MLB as a Kansas City Royal in 2017 with arguably his best season yet, and it came as a reliever. Minor’s 2.55 ERA, 1.017 WHIP, 6.6 H/9, 10.2 SO/9 and 4.00 strikeout-to-walk ratio were all career bests.

    Mike MInor has a mutual option worth $10 million with the Royals for 2018, but with the direction the team is headed, there’s a good chance he could get himself out of that mess.

    If Minor does choose to opt-out, the Braves could get him for around $10 million a year for a few years. If the Royals decline their side of the mutual option, he could very well be cheaper.

    Minor could start games for the Braves when needed, but would also be an excellent relief option in several different situations. With Kansas City, Minor worked the middle innings, he closed games, and he even had a few multi-inning appearances. Mike Minor is the versatile arm that the Atlanta Braves need.

    A change of scenery, maybe?
    Perhaps the best, affordable bullpen addition for the Braves would be Jake McGee. The 31-year-old has been plagued with the task of pitching in Colorado for the past two years, and his stats have suffered.

    A 4.11 ERA over the last two seasons is no indication of how good McGee is. What needs to be seen is his 2.75 ERA away from Colorado. That mark is almost identical to his 2.77 career ERA before joining the Rockies. Nothing else needs to be said about the numbers, because Jake McGee is still the dominant reliever he was with the Rays from 2010-to-2015.

    McGee got a 1-year, $5.9 million deal from the Rockies for the 2017 season, and after a decent season, he’s due for a raise. Hypothetically speaking, if the Braves can get Mike Minor for $10 million, they’d have about $9 million left to spend. Give it to Jake McGee, hands down. He could be the bullpen anchor that the Atlanta Braves need moving forward.

    To compete, or not to compete?
    The Braves’ ability to compete in 2018 hinges on their ability to first save money in deals, so that they have the money to make other deals happen. If they can do this, they’ve got a good shot at signing the guys they need.

    If the Atlanta Braves go into 2018 with Jim Johnson and Matt Adams on the roster, they don’t compete. If the Atlanta Braves have to pay a hefty majority of Matt Kemp’s contract to get him traded, they don’t compete. If the Atlanta Braves don’t have the money to compete, they won’t compete. That’s all there is to it.

    Of course all of this assumes that they get their house in order first.

    If the Braves aren’t competitive next year, there’s nothing to frown about. 2018 is essentially supposed to be the final year of the rebuilding process, and you can’t be mad at a team for not competing while they’re still putting pieces together and waiting on talent to develop. However, if this off-season goes well, don’t be surprised when the Braves finish the year above .500.
     
  15. Room 15

    Room 15 Mi equipo esta Los Tigres
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    Damn, middle relievers are expensive now.
     
  16. Sterling A

    Sterling A Well-Known Member

    thats what i was thinking as well, but anything is better than sending fuckers like Ian Kroll and Rex Brothers out to the mound on a nightly basis. Bullpen is the weakest part of the team and i dont even think its close. Have to upgrade immediately
     
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  17. jrmy

    jrmy For bookings contact Morgan at 702-374-3735
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    I think we've got plenty of middle relief with Ramirez, Viz, Minter, Winkler, and some of the guys who don't cut it in the starting rotation mixed in. What we need is an elite back-end guy.

    Spend the money there.
     
  18. FightingCock

    FightingCock Smoltzy, 2 dollar bourbon, Bluehose
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    Hey Kimbrell!
     
  19. Sterling A

    Sterling A Well-Known Member

  20. SC

    SC I’m boring and I’m bored
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    Best Pure Hitter: Switch-hitting OF Drew Waters (2) has a sound approach and plenty of bat speed, and his plus speed should help him beat out the occasional infield hit as well. His swing is pretty similar from both sides of the plate.

    Best Power Hitter: C/1B Drew Lugbauer (11) never hit for average at Michigan, but he always had power. After hitting 12 home runs for the Wolverines, he added 13 more in a half-season as a pro, several of the long and loud variety. His swing generates natural loft and leverage to go with solid-average bat speed.

    Fastest Runner: Waters is a 4.1-4.15 runner from home to first from the left side, giving him 60 grades on the 20-to-80 scouting scale. He's adept on the basepaths although he didn't show much basestealing aptitude in his pro debut.

    Best Defensive Player: Waters' plus speed and plus arm should allow him to stay in center field long-term. INF Jordan Rodgers (6) adeptly handled the challenge of playing shortstop, second and third base in his pro debut.

    Best Fastball: RHP Kyle Wright (1) sits at 92-96 mph and touched 97-98 in his pro debut. It's a potential top-of-the-scale pitch with late life and excellent angle. RHP Freddy Tarnok (3) pitches at 92-94, touching 97 on his best days, although like many teenagers he has plenty of work to do on his consistency.

    Best Secondary Pitch: Wright's slider and curveball have both earned plus-plus grades at their best. The mid-80s slider has plenty of power while the slower curveball has good depth, but the quality of both varies from outing to outing.

    Best Pro Debut: Lubgauer hit .261/.352/.514 with 13 home runs in stops at Rookie-level Danville and low Class A Rome while also adapting to catching more than he did in college.

    Best Athlete: Waters' combination of speed and developing power stands out, but it's par for the course in his very athletic family. His father was a Georgia Tech offensive lineman, his older brother played baseball at Georgia and his sister played soccer at Georgia as well.

    Most Intriguing Background: RHP Jacob Belinda (10) is the nephew of former Pirates righthander Stan Belinda. C Justin Morhardt (22) from a baseball family; his grandfather Moe briefly reached the major leagues in the early 1960s with the Cubs, and his father Greg is a Braves area scout and famously signed Mike Trout when he worked for the Angels.

    Closest To The majors: Wright is a top-of-the-draft college righthander. Normally those are some of the fastest-moving draft picks in every draft class.

    Best Late-Round Pick: Lugbauer was the only post-10th round pick to receive more than $125,000 (he counted $100 toward the Braves' bonus allotment). If he can develop his catching ability, he has a chance to be a find as a power bat who plays adequate defense.

    The One Who Got Away: RHP Cade Cavalli (29) barely pitched during his senior year of high school because of a back injury, but he pitched at 92-95 mph in the Oklahoma playoffs. He will compete for a spot in the Sooners' rotation instead.


    Read more at http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/2017-mlb-draft-grades-atlanta-braves/#rdu8fdvu5g1X45pl.99
     
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  21. Sterling A

    Sterling A Well-Known Member

    Braves' Arizona Fall League overview

    No. 10 prospect Riley honing plate discipline, defense in AFL

    [​IMG]
    Braves prospect Austin Riley discusses the start of his Arizona Fall League stint and what he is working on

    By Jonathan Mayo / MLB.com | @JonathanMayo | October 16th, 2017

    When you're 6-foot-3, 220 pounds and hit 12 homers in 60 games during your pro debut, you're likely to be defined by your power. Braves third baseman Austin Riley doesn't mind that so much, just as long as it's not the only thing he's known for.

    Riley is playing for the Peoria Javelinas in the Arizona Fall League, working to hone all aspects of his craft. And yes, after two full seasons of 20 homers per year, that does include sending balls over the fence.

    Braves Top 30 Prospects list

    "They did tell me they wanted me to keep swinging, try to hit a couple of home runs here and there," Riley said. "The first half of the season, my numbers were a little bit down. They wanted me to focus more on driving the ball."

    It's true that Riley did slug just .395 with nine homers in 65 first-half games in the pitching-friendly Florida State League. He upped that to .460 in 16 second-half games before being bumped up to Double-A at age 20, where he promptly slugged .511. It's the second straight season that has seen Riley start slow and finish strong. Perhaps the extra at-bats in the AFL will help him hit the ground running in 2018, as will a continued trend of improved plate discipline.

    "I don't know if maybe I need to start my offseason program a little bit earlier, but I'm definitely thinking about next year how I can start that first half how I finished the season," Riley said. "I do notice the strikeouts went down and the walks went up. If I can keep improving that way, I think my odds are just going to get better."

    Riley would also like to defy the odds many set for him coming out of the Draft in terms of his ability to stay at third base long-term. It's all part of him developing as an all-around player, and he did cut his errors from 30 in 2016 down to 20 in 2017.

    "In Florida, I think I only had like seven up until the Major League All-Star game," Riley said. "Then my body got fatigued and I started making some throwing errors. Overall, I'm moving my feet a lot better than I have been. Getting reps is the biggest thing for me at third.

    "As long as I keep my body in good health, good shape, I think I can potentially play third base in the big leagues for a long time. That's just a goal for me that I set personally, to make sure that my body is always in tip-top shape."

    Braves hitters in the Fall League

    Ronald Acuna, OF -- The top prospect in the AFL this year, Acuna rose to No. 5 overall thanks to going from A ball to Triple-A over the course of the 2017 season. Still just a teenager, he turned in a 20-40 season and is using the Fall League to get ready for what should be his big league debut in 2018.

    Alex Jackson, C -- Jackson just finished his first season in the Braves system, coming from the Mariners last November for Rob Whalen and Max Povse. He also finished his first season as a catcher, the position he played when he was the best high school bat in the 2014 Draft class. Adjustments at the plate have unlocked his power and he reached Double-A, with the added work behind the plate in the AFL likely to help him continue to climb the organizational ladder.


    [​IMG]
    Jackson on joining Fall League

    Braves 16th-ranked prospect Alex Jackson talks about joining the Arizona Fall League as a catcher



    Jared James, OF -- As a 34th round pick in the 2016 Draft out of Long Beach State, James has already exceeded expectations in many ways by handling an aggressive jump to Double-A for his first full season. He turned it on in the second half, hitting .321/.388/.464 after the Southern League All-Star break.

    Braves pitchers in the Fall League

    Corbin Clouse, LHP -- Mostly a starter at Davenport University, the Braves put their 27th-round pick in the 2016 Draft in the bullpen and watched him pitch his way to Double-A in his first full season. Clouse struck out 11.4 per nine during the season, but also walked 5.4 per nine.

    Max Fried, LHP -- After a breakout season in 2016 returning from Tommy John surgery, Fried's double-jump to Double-A hit some speed bumps. He did miss a good amount of bats and got a lot of ground-ball outs, but his walk rate and ERA were too high. That said, he made his big league debut and showed he can compete at that level.

    Josh Graham, RHP -- Graham initially was a catcher at the University of Oregon and didn't pitch, as a two-way player, until his junior year in 2015. The Braves saw enough to nab him in the fourth round that June and he pitched his way into the Double-A bullpen in his second full season. Across two levels in 2017, Graham held hitters to a .225 batting average against and struck out 9.7 per nine, while walking 4.0 per nine.

    Touki Toussaint, RHP -- Toussaint had a bit of an uneven 2017, though he handled the challenge of a late-season bump up to Double-A well, with a .207 BAA and 10 K/9 (also 5 BB/9) in seven starts. After 145 innings across two levels, he's pitching in shorter stints in the AFL.
     
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  22. jrmy

    jrmy For bookings contact Morgan at 702-374-3735
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  23. One Man Wolfpack

    One Man Wolfpack I hate Godzilla!
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    That would actually put GAMCO closer to 10%.

    Strangely they have been purchasing stock in the Braves almost daily for months now.
     
  24. One Man Wolfpack

    One Man Wolfpack I hate Godzilla!
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  25. Hewwow

    Hewwow Well-Known Member

  26. SC

    SC I’m boring and I’m bored
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    1. RONALD ACUNA, OF

    TRACK RECORD: Acuna's father Ron was a long-time Mets minor leaguer. But from an early age, the elder Acuna knew that his son would likely end up the better player. Ronald signed for $100,000, choosing the Braves over the Royals, and was advanced enough to begin his pro career in the U.S. in 2015. Acuna missed much of 2016 with of a thumb injury and began 2017 high Class A Florida. The Braves were confident he was ready for an in-season promotion—and they were right. Acuna blitzed through Double-A Mississippi in just two months and was even better for Triple-A Gwinnett, earning Minor League Player of the Year honors. The Braves' experience with Andruw Jones, who similarly jumped three minor league levels in a POY season in 1996, influenced their decision to move Acuna aggressively. They quickly realized he thrived when challenged.

    SCOUTING REPORT: Acuna has a wide range of strengths and few glaring weaknesses. Multiple scouts predicted multiple all-star appearances in his future. He's the rare prospect who actually carries future 60 (or better) grades on the 20-80 scale for all five tools. Acuna is a 70 runner with 70 defense who has a 60 arm and 60 hit tool. Many scouts project him to future 70 power.

    He already uses the whole field, and he went deep six times in 2017 to right or right-center field. Acuna used the opposite field more often as the season progressed. Not coincidentally he became tougher to strike out. Scouts looking for flaws noted that his strong arm is sometimes inaccurate and he could sometimes be stymied by quality fastballs up and in. But he already shows an ability to lay off breaking balls and velocity out of the zone. When he gets a pitch to hit, Acuna has extremely fast hands with strong wrists that whip the bat through the zone with excellent bat speed. He already generates exceptional exit velocities, which should pay off with 25-30 home runs once he matures.

    Projected Future Grades On 20-80 Scouting Scale
    Hit: 60. Power: 70. Speed: 70. Field: 70. Arm: 60.

    THE FUTURE: Even though he has fewer than 1,000 minor league at-bats, Acuna is big league ready and will head to spring training expected to play a significant role in 2018. With Ender Inciarte in center field, his initial role will be left or right fielder. The track record for 20-year-old big leaguers is spotty, but Acuna's defense and plate discipline should help ease his transition.

    2. LUIZ GOHARA, LHP
    image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Luiz-Gohara-Bill-Setliff-2017-300x212.jpg


    BORN: July, 31 1996
    B-T: L-L | HT.: 6-3 | WT.: 215
    SIGNED BY: Emilio Carrasquel/Hide Sueyoshi (Mariners).
    STATS: 7 W 4 L | 2.62 ERA | 147 SO
    SEE MORE
    TRACK RECORD: Coming into 2017, Gohara was largely seen as a high-ceiling tease. His development was slowed by disagreements with the Mariners front office over his conditioning. Traded to the Braves for righthander Shae Simmons and Mallex Smith in January 2017, Gohara seemed to embrace the Braves' lighter touch, and he advanced three minor league levels before reaching Atlanta in September.

    SCOUTING REPORT: Gohara's pure stuff compares favorably with anyone. In just 29 big league innings, he threw more 98-plus mph fastballs than any other lefty starter. His 95-99 mph fastball generates top-of-the- scale grades and his 82-85 mph slider is equally impressive because it looks like his fastball coming out of his hand before diving with late tilt. He shows some feel for a changeup, but it lacks late fade and he struggles to keep it on the edges of the plate. Gohara's control is fringe-average at best, but he has made significant strides and should develop average control.

    THE FUTURE: Gohara's speedy climb ensures he will go to spring training competing for a spot in the rotation. He has the potential to be a front-line starter.

    3. MIKE SOROKA, RHP
    image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Mike-Soroka-2017-dp-300x212.jpg


    BORN: Aug. 4, 1997
    B-T: R-R | HT.: 6-4 | WT.: 195
    DRAFTED: HS—Calgary, 2015 (1st round)
    STATS:. 11 W 8 L| 2.75 ERA | 125 SO
    SEE MORE
    TRACK RECORD: The Braves skipped Soroka over high Class
    A in 2017 and made him the second-youngest player in Double-A on Opening Day. He responded by finishing second in the Southern League in ERA (2.75).

    SCOUTING REPORT: Soroka is a sinker/slider pitcher who touches 95 mph but lives at 90-93 mph with his two-seamer. His delivery has a little crossfire action that adds deception and has not affected his plus control. He started to throw his four-seamer more alters hitters' eye levels. Soroka's plus breaking ball is hard to classify. At it's best it's an above-average 84-86 mph curveball because of 1-to-7 shape, but it's tighter and has a sharper break than normal. When his adrenaline is flowing, it morphs into a high-80s pitch with slider tilt. His changeup flashes above-average with some late run but could use more consistency. His sinker and breaking ball eat up righthanders, but those same offerings end up down and in where lefties can feast, so his changeup must show run away from lefties.

    THE FUTURE: Soroka's pure stuff doesn't match Kyle Wright, Luiz Gohara or Ian Anderson, but his exceptional makeup, pitchability and athleticism make him a safe bet to be a mid-rotation starter.



    4. KYLE WRIGHT, RHP
    image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Kyle-Wright-2017-ck-300x212.jpg


    BORN: Dec. 18, 1997
    B-T: R-R | HT.: 6-4 | WT.: 220
    DRAFTED: Vanderbilt, 2017 (1st round)
    STATS: 0 W 1 L | 2.65 ERA | 18 SO
    SEE MORE
    TRACK RECORD: Wright traveled the typical Vanderbilt ace develop- ment track, going from dominating reliever as freshman to reliable starter as a sophomore and junior. The Braves went nearly $1.3 million over slot to sign Wright for $7 million as the fifth overall pick in 2017. He finished the year with six starts at high Class A Florida.

    SCOUTING REPORT: Wright's plus-plus fastball ranges from 92-98 mph, with late life at its best to go with excellent angle. His command is better when he's pitching in the lower registers of his velocity range. Wright's curveball and slider both generate potential plus grades, but he often shows a knack for locating one or the other, depending on the day. His curveball is a low- 80s pitch with late break and good depth. His harder mid-80s slider has modest break but plenty of power. His mid-80s changeup is his fourth pitch for now but shows excellent fade and run when he's locked in.

    THE FUTURE: Wright is still adjusting to the five-day schedule of pro ball, but in an organization that doesn't hesitate to challenge players, an Opening Day assignment to Double-A isn't out of the question. He has a chance to be a future top-of-the-rotation starter thanks to his varied repertoire, physicality and control.



    5. IAN ANDERSON, RHP
    image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Ian-Anderson-2016-mj-300x212.jpg


    BORN: May 2, 1998
    B-T: R-R | HT.: 6-3 | WT.: 170
    SIGNED BY: Greg Morhardt
    STATS:. 4 W 5 L | 3.14 ERA | 101 SO
    SEE MORE
    TRACK RECORD: Anderson was a victim of his own success in 2017. His efficiency in the first half meant he bumped up against his innings limit earlier than expected. Worried about overtaxing
    a cold-weather arm in his first full season, the Braves slammed the brakes on Anderson's pitch limits, holding him to just 17.2 innings in the final two months.

    SCOUTING REPORT: The Braves' initial point of emphasis with young pitchers is to teach them to throw a quality changeup. Anderson embraced the pitch, developing it from afterthought to a pitch that flashes above-average in the span of a year. The improved change gives him a chance to end up with three above-average pitches. His 91-95 mph fastball touches 97, and he gets downhill thanks to his over-the-top delivery. As he worked on his change, Anderson relied less on his plus curveball with 12-to-6 action. Scouts believe Anderson has advanced control and command for his age, despite his walk rate of 4.7 per nine innings.

    THE FUTURE: Anderson projects as a future No. 2 or 3 starter, though he has to prove his durability and consistency. He will jump to high Class A Florida in 2018.

    6. AUSTIN RILEY, 3B
    image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/austin_riley-300x212.jpg


    BORN: Apr. 2, 1997
    B-T: R-R | HT.: 6-2 | WT.: 220
    SIGNED BY: Don Thomas
    STATS: .275/.339/.446 | 20 HR | 74 RBI
    SEE MORE
    TRACK RECORD: Many teams saw Riley as a better pitching prospect coming out of high school. The Braves disagreed, believing in Riley's power. He's rewarded their faith by hitting 20 home runs in each of his first two full seasons while advancing to Double-A Mississippi at age 20 in 2017.

    SCOUTING REPORT: Riley has embraced the Braves' focus on improving his nutritional habits. He appears slimmer, stronger and quicker than he was when drafted. He also has shortened his swing and improved his bat speed, helping him to more consistently get to his plus power potential and alleviating concerns about his now average hit tool. Riley's biggest improvement has come defensively. He has alleviated fears he would need to move to first base and is now an above-average third baseman. His plus-plus arm is still his calling card, but he also improved his first-step quickness.

    THE FUTURE: Riley headed to the Arizona Fall League, which will help prepare him for a move to Triple-A Gwinnett in 2018. Unless blocked by a future trade or free agent acquisition, Riley is the Braves' third baseman of the not-too-distant future.

    7. KOLBY ALLARD, LHP
    image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Kolby-Allard-2017-tf-300x197.jpg


    BORN: Aug. 13, 1997
    B-T: L-L | HT.: 6-1| WT.: 180
    SIGNED BY: Dan Cox
    STATS:. 8 W 11 L | 3.18 ERA| 129 SO
    SEE MORE
    TRACK RECORD: The Braves challenged both Allard and Mike Soroka with a two-level jump to Double-A Mississippi in 2017. Allard handled it with few issues. The youngest player in Double-A at the start of the season, Allard worked five or more innings in 25 of 27 starts.

    SCOUTING REPORT: Allard is a nibbler by necessity. His average 88-92 mph fastball lacks the oomph and plane to consistently challenge hitters, but thanks to plus command, he largely avoids the heart of the plate. He can manipulate his fastball by cutting it to get in on hitters' hands. His changeup graded as consistently plus in 2017, while his curveball is plus at its best, but it wasn't as consistent in 2017. His lack of size limits his projection, but his preternatural polish and command give him a high likelihood of big league success.

    THE FUTURE: Even as Allard earns comparisons with frontline Braves pitchers of the past, like Steve Avery, scouts consistently project him as a future No. 4 starter, with a few seeing a potential No. 3 and others saying No. 5. Allard is ready for Triple-A Gwinnett and could reach the majors as a 20-year-old in 2018.

    8. MAX FRIED, LHP
    image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Max-Fried-2016-tf-300x197.jpg


    BORN: Dec. 18, 1997
    B-T: L-L | HT.: 6-4 | WT.: 200
    SIGNED BY: Brent Mayne (Padres).
    STATS:. 2 W 11 L | 5.54 ERA | 91 SO
    SEE MORE
    TRACK RECORD: The first high school pitcher drafted in 2012, Fried has endured Tommy John surgery, a trade and bouts of wildness. A blister issue helped ruin his first half in 2017, but he rebounded to make his big league debut in August.

    SCOUTING REPORT: Fried's fastball and curveball combo can be devastating when he's throwing strikes. His plus curve has long been his biggest weapon. He loosens it up as a 72-74 mph get-me-over pitch early in counts, but then tightens it into a harder 75-77 tight-breaking curve that generates swings and misses later in counts. Fried's 92-93 mph fastball touches 97 at its hottest. It is an above-average pitch, but his cur- rent below-average control limits his effectiveness. His fringe-average changeup is a usable pitch Fried unveils against righthanders. He fields his position well and has a dangerous pickoff move.

    THE FUTURE: Fried lacks the polish and control of younger systemmates Mike Soroka or Kolby Allard, but he also has better pure stuff. As a member of the 40-man roster, he figures to see big league time in 2018, though his control could use further refinement.

    9. KEVIN MAITAN, SS
    image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Kevin-Maitan-2017-cw-300x212.jpg


    BORN: Feb. 12, 2000
    B-T: B-R | HT.: 6-2 | WT.: 190
    SIGNED BY: Gordon Blakely/Mike Silvestri/Rolando Petit
    STATS: .241/.290/.340 | 2 HR | 18 RBI
    SEE MORE
    TRACK RECORD: Maitan was considered one of the top young hitters to come out of Latin America in years. He signed with the Braves for $4.25 million and was considered advanced enough to spend most of his first pro season in the Rookie-level Appalachian League.

    SCOUTING REPORT: Maitan's pro debut was worrisome. He gained significant weight in his lower half since signing, and now few scouts believe he will be able to stick at shortstop. The switch-hitter's righthanded swing was quick and direct, but his lefthanded one showed significant length and less bat speed. He also showed a tendency to chase pitches out of the zone. Maitan has plus power potential, but his approach will have be refined to tap into what scouts have long seen as his plus hit tool. Maitan has good body control, a plus arm and soft hands, but his range was limited by his lack of speed and first-step quickness.

    THE FUTURE: Maitan slimmed down to 210 pounds for instructional league. Even with a probable move to third base, he has the hitting ability to be an impact player, but he doesn't have the expected polish. He could break camp with low Class A Rome in 2018.

    10. CRISTIAN PACHE, OF
    image: http://www.baseballamerica.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Cristian-Pache-2015-bm-300x211.gif


    BORN: Nov. 18, 1998
    B-T: R-R | HT.: 6-2 | WT.: 185
    SIGNED BY: Matias Laureano
    STATS: .281/.335/.343 | 0 HR | 42 RBI
    SEE MORE
    TRACK RECORD: A top prospect in the 2015 international class, Pache has gotten better since he signed. An above-average runner then, he’s now a top-of-the-scale runner. His glove work has similarly improved as he advanced to low Class A Rome in 2017.

    SCOUTING REPORT: Pache's aggressive, almost cocky center field defense will get him to the big leagues. He plays shallow, challenging hitters to hit it over his head. If they do, he proves he can track balls over his head with ease. He's one of the best defensive center fielders in the minors and has Gold Glove potential with an above-average arm. Pache's speed plays on the basepaths, too. At the plate, his swing has some length that leads scouts to see a future average hit tool, but he has shown improved strike-zone recognition and solid bat-to-ball skills. Scouts love his athleticism and believe that once he fills out he'll hit for at least average power, even though he has yet to homer as a pro.

    THE FUTURE: Pache's bat will determine whether he becomes an impact regular or just a useful, speedy outfielder. He has plenty of time to develop power, which probably won't show up in the expansive parks of the high Class A Florida State League in 2018.


    Read more at http://www.baseballamerica.com/minors/2018-atlanta-braves-top-10-prospects/#qk1jl0uIzHO2bhOd.99
     
  27. Sterling A

    Sterling A Well-Known Member

    SCOUTING REPORT: Acuna has a wide range of strengths and few glaring weaknesses. Multiple scouts predicted multiple all-star appearances in his future. He's the rare prospect who actually carries future 60 (or better) grades on the 20-80 scale for all five tools. Acuna is a 70 runner with 70 defense who has a 60 arm and 60 hit tool. Manyscouts project him to future 70 power.

    :grinch:
     
    Keef likes this.
  28. Room 15

    Room 15 Mi equipo esta Los Tigres
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    I feel like that's the worst projection I've heard on Allard before. Always thought he was a high ceiling, low floor guy.
     
    HtownTide, BamaNug and Keef like this.
  29. Nug

    Nug MexicanNug
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    So Allard's a low-end guy and Maitan is going to eat his way out of the league before he gets here.

    Trade the farm for Machado, use the rest for a 7/8 man rotation.
     
  30. allothersnsused

    allothersnsused Wow that’s crazy
    Donor
    Virginia CavaliersAtlanta BravesAtlanta HawksWashington Football TeamChelsea

    Maybe I'm impatient but as we approach the point where we're supposed to be rounding the corner, I'm not sure we have the staff we thought we would.

    Would really like to see us make some moves to grab an ace because, from most reports, it doesn't seem like we have one anywhere in the farm.
     
  31. Room 15

    Room 15 Mi equipo esta Los Tigres
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    Yea sounds like Wright may be our best option.
     
  32. Where Eagles Dare

    Where Eagles Dare The Specialist Show On Earth
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    Braves gonna get hammered for cheating to sign a fat worthless player.

    Such Barve
     
  33. Keef

    Keef Liked by Pierre Gasly
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    I think it's too early to tell on a few of these guys on if they are going to be legit. That being said the league has continually trended to higher and higher fastball velocity and our picks have not followed that trend. Gohara and Wright are the only guys that fit that
     
  34. Hewwow

    Hewwow Well-Known Member

    Agreed. Rebuilding around pitching was weird and added way more risk than was necessary.
     
  35. jrmy

    jrmy For bookings contact Morgan at 702-374-3735
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    Everyone is overreacting. Very few guys get "ace" projections.

    Gohara and Wright have very good stuff and should develop into a great top 2 IMO

    Soroka profiles as a solid mid-rotation guy who eats innings with good numbers.

    Now you've just got to find 2 more you like among Allard, Anderson, Wentz, Folty, Newcomb, Fried, Teheran, Wilson, etc etc etc
     
  36. jrmy

    jrmy For bookings contact Morgan at 702-374-3735
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    And then you've also probably got a surplus waiting in the wings, to use as trade bait, add to bullpen, etc.

    It would be a problem if we only had a few good dudes but we've got a LOT of very good guys in the system.
     
    FightingCock likes this.
  37. Gregor

    Gregor The League of Morons

    Ability to locate and change speeds will always trump velocity. Let’s see if Allard keeps getting people out.
     
    Uncle Si and LetItSoak like this.
  38. LetItSoak

    LetItSoak Well-Known Member
    Donor

    If I recall we've had some mild success with guys who didn't throw particularly hard
     
    FightingCock likes this.
  39. Sterling A

    Sterling A Well-Known Member

    Braves decline 2018 option on R.A. Dickey; Tyler Flowers to return
    1:25 PM ET
    • Associated Press
    ATLANTA -- The Atlanta Braves have declined their $8 million option on 42-year-old knuckleballer R.A. Dickey and exercised their $4 million option on catcher Tyler Flowers.

    Dickey was the Braves' most consistent starter this season, going 10-10 with a 4.26 ERA in 31 starts. He said at the end of the season he will meet with his family before deciding whether he wants to pitch in 2018.

    He gets a $500,000 buyout and becomes eligible for free agency.

    Flowers, 31, will return for his third season with Atlanta after hitting a career-best .281 with 12 homers and 49 RBI. He had arthroscopic surgery on his left wrist Oct. 9 and is expected to be ready for spring training.

    Flowers and Kurt Suzuki combined to give the Braves 30 homers and 98 RBI at catcher last season. Suzuki agreed to a $1.5 million, one-year contract for 2018 on Sept. 23.

    The Braves made the announcements Monday.






     
    #8490 Sterling A, Oct 23, 2017
    Last edited: Oct 23, 2017
  40. Keef

    Keef Liked by Pierre Gasly
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    Think I read something that 7 of the top 10 teams with the highest average pitch velocity made the playoffs this season. I could have read it wrong, but that would seem to indicate a shift.
     
  41. jrmy

    jrmy For bookings contact Morgan at 702-374-3735
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    I like bringing back the Flowers/Suzuki platoon. Hopefully that buys enough time for two of Jackson, Cumberland, Contreras, and Lugbauer to get a lot closer
     
    Keef likes this.
  42. Sterling A

    Sterling A Well-Known Member

    PROJECTED 2021 LINEUP
    (Listed with 2021 season age)

    C Alex Jackson (25)
    1B Freddie Freeman (32)
    2B Ozzie Albies (25)
    3B Austin Riley (23)
    SS Dansby Swanson (28)
    LF Ender Inciarte (31)
    CF Cristian Pache (22)
    RF Ronald Acuna (23)
    SP Luiz Gohara (25)
    SP Mike Soroka (24)
    SP Kyle Wright (25)
    SP Julio Teheran (31)
    SP Ian Anderson (23)
    CL A.J. Minter (28)




    ATLANTA BRAVES TOP MLB PROSPECTS 2018


    October 24, 2017 By BA Staff


    2018 Atlanta Braves Top 10 Prospects

    SEE ALSO: Braves Top 10 Chat

    Notable Graduations: Double-play combo SS Dansby Swanson (1) and 2B Ozzie Albies (2) and LHP Sean Newcomb (8) gained valuable experience.

    Trending: ◀️▶️ Still one of the best.



    SYSTEM OVERVIEW
    Strengths: Even after graduating Sean Newcomb, this is the deepest group of pitching prospects in the game. Atlanta has a full rotation of starting pitching prospects who have experience at Double-A or higher, with another wave of young arms right behind them. The Braves are especially deep in lefty starters. Ronald Acuna gives the Braves a cornerstone position prospect to build around as well. The team's catching depth has also improved dramatically.

    Weaknesses: After graduating Dansby Swanson, Ozzie Albies and Johan Camargofrom last year's Top 30 Prospects, the farm system lacks middle infield prospects, especially ones who have full-season minor league experience.



    TOP PROSPECTS OF THE DECADE
    (Listed with 2017 organization)

    2008: OF Jordan Schafer (Cardinals) WAR: -2.2
    2009: RHP Tommy Hanson (Deceased) | WAR: 4.8
    2010: OF Jason Heyward (Cubs) | WAR: 34.9
    2011: RHP Julio Teheran (Braves) | WAR: 15.6
    2012: RHP Julio Teheran (Braves) | WAR: **
    2013: RHP Julio Teheran (Braves) | WAR: **
    2014: RHP Lucas Sims (Braves) | WAR: N/A
    2015: 2B Jose Peraza (Braves) | WAR: -0.9
    2016: LHP Sean Newcomb (Braves) | WAR: 1.1
    2017: SS Dansby Swanson (Braves) | WAR: 0.6



    TOP DRAFT PICKS OF THE DECADE
    (Listed with 2017 organization)

    2008: LHP Brett DeVall (Did not play) | WAR: N/A
    2009: LHP Mike Minor (Royals) | WAR: 6.7
    2010: SS Matt Lipka (Rangers) | WAR: N/A
    2011: LHP Sean Gilmartin (Cardinals) | WAR: 0.8
    2012: RHP Lucas Sims (Braves) | WAR: -0.1
    2013: RHP Jason Hursh (Braves) | WAR: N/A
    2014: OF Braxton Davidson (Braves) | WAR: N/A
    2015: LHP Kolby Allard (Braves) | WAR: Top 10
    2016: RHP Ian Anderson (Braves) | WAR: Top 10
    2017: RHP Kyle Wright (Braves) | WAR: Top 10
     
    Gin Buckets likes this.
  43. Sterling A

    Sterling A Well-Known Member

    Jeff Sullivan
    It looks like the Royals denied the Braves an opportunity to interview Dayton Moore

    Usually teams don't stand in the way of potential promotions, and Moore would've been going from GM to president of baseball ops, or something. Weird optics here!
     
  44. BP

    BP Bout to Regulate.
    Donor
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  45. bcuga

    bcuga Administrator
    Staff Donor TMB OG
    Georgia BulldogsAtlanta BravesAtlanta HawksAtlanta Falcons

    Sounds like Acuna, Riley, Jackson, and Fried are all destroying the AFL. Hoping for some miracle and we can dump Kemp for Acuna.
     
  46. FightingCock

    FightingCock Smoltzy, 2 dollar bourbon, Bluehose
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    I think he will be gone to a team like the White Sox who just need a DH. We will pick up most of the salary probably
     
  47. It'sAlwaysSunnyInAthens

    It'sAlwaysSunnyInAthens Well-Known Member
    Donor

    Braves president John Hart didn't play role in rules violations
    11:00 AM ET
    • [​IMG]
      Jerry CrasnickESPN Senior Writer
    John Hart, the Atlanta Braves' president of baseball operations, did not play a role in numerous rules violations that forced two club officials to resign in early October, a source told ESPN.

    Major League Baseball is nearing the end of an investigation into the violations that prompted general manager John Coppolella and international scouting director Gordon Blakeley to resign after the regular season. The Braves broke MLB rules related to both the domestic amateur draft and the international signing market, the source confirmed.



    [​IMG]
    Sources: Braves denied interview with Moore
    Royals owner David Glass denied the Braves permission to interview Kansas City general manager Dayton Moore about running Atlanta's baseball operation.



    The Braves are subject to a mix of sanctions that could include a fine, loss of picks in the June first-year draft and the loss of international pool space.
    Commissioner Rob Manfred's office is expected to announce its findings in November after the completion of the World Series.

    MLB's investigation examined the Braves' internal communications and determined that Coppolella acted without knowledge or approval from Hart or John Schuerholz, the team's vice chairman, the source said. MLB is still trying to determine whether lower-level employees who worked under Coppolella were involved in any of the violations.

    The source described Hart's management style as "disengaged." It is unclear whether Braves ownership will respond to the spate of rules violations with a major front-office overhaul, but the Atlanta Journal-Constitution recently reported that the Braves have asked the Washington Nationals for permission to interview team officials Doug Harris and Dan Jennings as potential successors to Coppolella.

    Last week, the Braves asked the Kansas City Royalsfor permission to talk to general manager Dayton Moore about running their baseball operation, but Royals owner David Glass denied the request