The Braves' Long Shot Roster Battles: A Tale of Unlikely Odds
The Atlanta Braves, fresh from an impressive offseason, have encountered a setback as we approach Spring Training. With key players dealing with elbow injuries, the team's momentum seems to have stalled. But here's where it gets intriguing: these injuries create a unique opportunity for some unlikely heroes to step up and secure a spot on the roster.
However, even with these openings, four players face an uphill battle to make the cut, despite their best efforts during Spring Training. Let's delve into their stories and explore why their chances are slim, even in the face of adversity.
RHP Carlos Carrasco: A Veteran's Struggle
Despite the Braves' pitching injuries, it's hard to envision a path for Carlos Carrasco to make the team. His recent struggles at the major league level are a cause for concern. With an ERA of 7.09 in 11 appearances last season, Carrasco's performance left much to be desired. Even though he pitched for the Braves in three games, his 9.88 ERA was a red flag. The team's decision to DFA and release him speaks volumes.
While the Braves gave him another chance with a minor league deal, the competition is fierce. Pitchers like Bryce Elder, Martin Perez, and Jose Suarez are likely to be prioritized, even with the rotation injuries. Carrasco's road to redemption seems blocked by these talented arms.
OF Ben Gamel: A Journeyman's Quest
Ben Gamel, a veteran of eight MLB teams, is a deserving big league player. However, his chances of making the Braves' roster are slim, given the team's outfield depth. With players like Jurickson Profar, Mike Yastrzemski, and Michael Harris II expected to make the team, Gamel faces an uphill battle.
The question arises: who would Gamel replace? And if the answer is none, why carry a sixth outfielder? Gamel's path to playing time is obscured by the Braves' strong outfield core. It's a tough break for a player with his experience, but the numbers don't lie.
RHP Jhancarlos Lara: The Command Conundrum
Jhancarlos Lara, a long-time prospect in the Braves' system, has yet to make his major league debut. His minor league track record, marked by command issues, is a significant hurdle. Despite impressive strikeout numbers (104 in 68.2 innings in 2025), Lara's walk rate (8.5 BB/9) is a concern. His career minor league walk rate of 6.6 batters per nine innings is a red flag.
Lara's command issues are a major obstacle. Even if he shows improvement this spring, he must consistently throw strikes to earn a shot with the Braves. If he can master his command, Lara could be a valuable relief weapon. But for now, his chances of making the Opening Day roster are slim.
1B Dominic Smith: A Talented Prospect's Frustrating Situation
Dominic Smith, a former top prospect with the New York Mets, recently signed a minor league deal with the Braves. His strong 2025 season with the San Francisco Giants makes his current situation all the more disappointing. With Matt Olson, one of the best and most durable first basemen in the game, Smith's odds of making the Braves' roster are incredibly slim.
Olson's track record speaks for itself. He has played in every game since joining the Braves in the 2021 offseason, a testament to his durability. Smith's path to playing time is virtually non-existent, as Olson is a staple at first base. Even as a DH or bench bat, Smith would face stiff competition for playing time.
These four players embody the long shot roster battles that make Spring Training so captivating. While their chances are slim, their stories highlight the unpredictable nature of baseball. Who will rise to the occasion and defy the odds? Only time will tell. What do you think? Will any of these players surprise us and make the Braves' roster? Let's discuss in the comments!
