re: The ATL Thread: Offseason Edition

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3. CF B.J. Upton, Atlanta Braves: three years, $46.4 million (5)

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As the top three names on this list suggest, I believe it’s better to have a good but overpaid player than someone with no discernible value. Upton is still just 30 years old, so in theory he could reclaim some of his former value, but let’s be realistic here: He has batted .198 over the past two years, with 324 strikeouts in 910 at-bats. His swing is broken, the flashes of power he once showed are now exceedingly rare, and even his speed — the one element of his game that was always there when he posted solid but inconsistent results in Tampa Bay — isn’t anywhere near the weapon it used to be.

If Upton weren’t owed all this money, what would his role with the Braves be? Fourth outfielder? Fifth outfielder? If things don’t improve soon, the most likely outcome is that he’ll receive the Dan Uggla treatment.

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