3 Last-Minute Free Agents the Braves Need to Sign Before Spring Training

Coming off their fifth straight division title, the Atlanta Braves are poised for another strong campaign in 2023. Their offseason has been something of a mixed bag, however, as they upgraded at catcher by trading for Sean Murphy but also lost several notable stars (Dansby Swanson, Kenley Jansen, Adam Duvall) to free agency.

With the New York Mets only getting stronger, the Braves are in danger of losing their hold on the NL East. Fortunately, there's still time for them to make some last-minute improvements before Spring Training kicks off this week.

Here are three free agents Atlanta should target before pitchers and catchers report to camp.

Atlanta Braves Free Agency Rumors

1. Odubel Herrera, OF

With Duvall now in Boston, Herrera could help replace him in center field. Herrera's stock has taken a hit in recent years due to injuries and underperformance, so it's easy to forget that he was regarded as a promising outfielder not too long ago. The 31-year-old former All-Star can switch-hit and play all three outfield positions while providing solid pop, speed and offensive production. Many think Herrera could use a change of scenery after seven seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies, so this could be the perfect opportunity for Atlanta to poach someone from a division rival.

2. Michael Wacha, SP

You can never have too much pitching depth, and the Braves could use a pitcher like Wacha. Their rotation is on the young side except for Charlie Morton, who's 39 and is a risky bet to stay healthy. Wacha could be a great backup plan if one of them gets hurt after going 11-2 with a 3.32 ERA for the Boston Red Sox last year. The 31-year-old former All-Star also has World Series experience from his time with the St. Louis Cardinals, which could come in handy if Atlanta makes it back to the Fall Classic.

3. Jose Iglesias, SS

With Swanson gone, 22-year-old Vaughn Grissom is penciled in to take his place at shortstop. That could be asking too much of the youngster, however, who may struggle in his first full season in the bigs. Iglesias would be a solid insurance policy if Grissom gets hurt or needs to be sent down for additional seasoning. The 33-year-old former All-Star hit .292/,328/.380 for the Colorado Rockies last in 2022 and plays capable defense, so at the very least he could be something of a mentor for Grissom.