So, while it's been a quiet November in terms of trades and signings (Paxton notwithstanding), the Braves did complicate things a bit today, with two inexpensive one-year signings that won't break the bank or impede on the youth movement.
One of them is used to the organization- Brian McCann will probably start at catcher, replacing Kurt Suzuki, and alternate with Tyler Flowers. McCann is less of a defensive threat than he was in 2013, his last year in Atlanta, but he's still good for some ferocious at-bats, some home runs, and some (let's face it) much needed veteran presence, especially in a Braves roster that might not even have Nick Markakis in it.
But, as McCann alluded to in his press conference, he wasn't the biggest name that joined the Braves today. That'd have to be former MVP Josh Donaldson, who's still among the bigger names in the game, and could still get back to his old tricks next season.
The Braves have signed him to play third base, and while Johan Camargo is a perfectly fine third baseman...he is not, the last time I checked, former MVP and All-Star third baseman Josh Donaldson. So, on this one-year deal, Donaldson's being paid to play third base...and stay healthy. With an emphasis on that last part, because that's not always a guarantee with Donaldson, especially in the last two seasons. He's a great player, can hit like hell, and can lead a team like the best of them, but he can't lead from the DL. He's not David Wright yet, but...eesh, the last two seasons scare me.
Needless to say, the Braves have booked two veteran presences that won't clash too badly with the youth of the lineup, and hopefully this will be the touch that keeps them above the competition in the NL East.
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