The Braves have Cameron Maybin under contractual control for the next two seasons but it’s uncertain if he’ll stay with the club as it transitions to the new ballpark in Cobb County for the 2017 season.
Maybin said he hopes he’ll be part of the team’s future. After four years with the Padres, Maybin is on track for a career-best season and said he feels rejuvenated playing near his home state of North Carolina.
“It’s got a lot to do with it,” Maybin said after going 3-for-5 with a home run and a double against the Phillies on Saturday. “I had my son with me all day today. We got to get out on the field and hit early. Things like that are important, special.
“To be able to be close to home—my mom, my father, family and friends—it’s been a new-found energy, as well as being healthy has been a big part of it. I’m having a blast playing here. We will see what happens but I am really enjoying my time here.”
The Braves acquired Maybin from the Padres as part of the Craig Kimbrel trade on the eve of opening day. Maybin split time in center field with Eric Young Jr. early in the season before winning the everyday job and now is flourishing.
In 72 games this season Maybin is batting .295 with a .364 on-base percentage, .418 slugging percentage and 15 stolen bases in 19 attempts. His best full season came with the Padres in 2011 when he played 137 games and hit .264 with a .323 on-base percentage, .393 slugging percentage and 40 stolen bases in 48 attempts.
Maybin, 28, is making $7 million this season and is due to be paid $8 million in 2016. The Braves hold a 2017 club option for $9 million with a $1 million buyout.
“When he’s got his game going he can make an impact defensively, offensively, on the base paths, ,” Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez said.
