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Friday, September 8, 2006
Previewing the off-season
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
It will be a busy offseason for general manager John Schuerholz as he tries to make the Braves a playoff team again.
Where will he start?
After picking up John Smoltz’s option, the GM’s next move should be re-signing closer Bob Wickman.
Is Wickman a sure thing to duplicate his recent success with the Braves next season? No.
But Wickman still remains the best option for the Braves if he is willing to sign for something near the $5 million he made this season.
Schuerholz went after numerous closers, including Wickman, last offseason and came up empty as salaries skyrocketed.
Everyone knows the results. After 14 straight division titles, the Braves have a losing record.
The bullpen wasn’t the only Braves problem, but it started the slide. The team has to go into next season with a proven closer.
If Wickman is re-signed quickly, the Braves can go about filling their other needs by free agency and trades.
Marcus Giles has trade value, so is likely to be dealt. If is value hasn’t fallen too much, Tim Hudson also remains a trading chip.
The Braves can’t afford to let Andruw Jones walk as a free agent after next season. But they may also not be able to afford to re-sign him.
Trading the Gold Glove center fielder may be difficult, however. He has veto power over any deal.
The offseason will be longer for the Braves this year without a playoff berth. Schuerholz needs to use every day of it to restock his team.
Better luck on injuries and added experience for the young players isn’t enough in itself to make the Braves winners again in 2007.
