Veteran catchers A.J. Pierzynski and Tyler Flowers are expected to provide a steady influence for the Braves’ bevy of young pitching prospects. But behind Pierzynski and Flowers, there’s a need for young catching. In fact, general manager John Coppolella says finding young catching is the organization’s biggest long-term need in terms of prospects.
“We don’t have anybody that’s close right now,” Coppolella. “We have guys that we like, who are two or three years away. As far as for-real impact guys, we don’t have anyone close.”
While Coppolella tries to pinpoint the catchers of the future, he’s happy to have the tandem of Pierzynski and Flowers to help shape the young pitching arms that are in the system.
The Braves drafted Flowers in 2005. He spent seven seasons with the Chicago White Sox before the Braves signed him to a three-year deal in December.
“Flowers ranked as the second-best framer out there,” Coppolella said. “That will really help our young arms as they keep getting better and as they start to come through our system.”
Pierzynski is entering his 15th full season and second in Atlanta. Coppolella said having the veteran on the roster is a huge factor.
“With A.J., this guy cares greatly, works with our guys, wants them to get better,” Coppolella said.
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