As one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball (MLB), the Atlanta Braves have a rich history of success on the field. Part of their success can be attributed to the contracts they offer their players, which allow the team to build a winning roster year after year.
The Braves have a reputation for being savvy negotiators, and they have a long history of offering contracts that not only benefit the team but also the players. Here, we’ll take a closer look at some of the Atlanta Braves’ player contracts and what makes them unique.
One of the most famous contracts in Braves’ history was the 1990 contract signed by Tom Glavine. The contract was a landmark deal for the team, as it paid Glavine a then-league-high $5.5 million per year. The deal was seen as a commitment to winning, as Glavine was a cornerstone of the team’s pitching rotation during the Braves’ run of dominance in the 1990s.
The Braves have also been known to offer incentive-laden contracts to players. In 2014, the team signed veteran outfielder Jonny Gomes to a one-year, $4 million contract that included a number of performance-based incentives. Gomes went on to have a solid season for the Braves, hitting .221 with nine home runs and 34 RBI.
Another example of a contract that worked out well for both the Braves and the player was the four-year, $52 million deal signed by first baseman Freddie Freeman in 2014. The contract was seen as a major commitment to the 24-year-old Freeman, who had already established himself as one of the league’s top young players. Since then, Freeman has become one of the team’s most consistent performers, averaging 28 home runs and 93 RBI per season.
The Braves’ front office has also been willing to take risks on players who are coming off down years or injuries. In 2015, the team signed free agent pitcher Jason Grilli to a one-year, $3 million contract after he had suffered a season-ending injury the previous year. Grilli went on to have a strong season for the Braves, saving 24 games with a 2.94 ERA.
Overall, the Atlanta Braves have a long history of offering contracts that benefit both the team and the players. Whether it’s through high-paying deals, performance-based incentives, or taking risks on players coming off injuries, the team has consistently found ways to build a winning roster. As the Braves look to build on their recent success, it’s clear that their player contracts will continue to be a key factor in their continued success.
