Atlanta Braves News: incoming Yasiel Puig, opening day opener Mike Soroka


The Atlanta Braves were satisfied with the composition of their current roster after all. Alex Anthopoulos has reportedly plugged the hole left by Nick Markakis’ decision to opt out of the 2020 season with free agent outfielder Yasiel Puig. MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand reported Tuesday that Puig agreed with the Braves pending a physical. The team has yet to announce the signing of Puig and may take a few more days due to additional testing due to the pandemic. However, on the surface, the Braves simply added another significant right-handed bat to their roster.

Braves News

Before Intrasquad’s scrimmage on Tuesday, Brian Snitker announced that Mike Soroka would be the team’s starter on opening day in New York. Soroka will be the youngest opening day opener for the Braves during the modern era. Snitker also updated the status of outfielder Cristian Pache, who was injured in a stolen base attempt in Monday’s scrimmage. Pache was originally included in Tuesday’s scrimmage lineup, but was later scratched due to ankle pain. It is expected to sit for a couple of days.

Our series of player group profiles continued on Tuesday with a look at left-hander Chris Rusin and catcher Jonathan Morales.

MLB News

Eleven MLB umpires have exercised their right to opt out of the 2020 season, according to Jon Heyman of the MLB Network.

Twins outfielder Byron Buxton had to be taken off the field during Monday’s Intrasquad scrimmage at Target Field. The Twins announced Tuesday that he is spraying a sprained left foot half day without structural damage.

The Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo will undergo an MRI scan on his back according to manager David Ross. Rizzo has been out of the game for about a week due to stiffness in his back.