Braves make $6.1M contract decision on 2-time Gold Glove winner, World Series Champion

The Atlanta Braves know this offseason will require some aggression, and they have shown that with the moves they’ve made this week. The Braves re-signed Raisel Iglesias and also traded for utility man Mauricio Dubón.

“The Atlanta Braves are acquiring infielder Mauricio Dubón from the Houston Astros for infielder Nick Allen,” ESPN insider Jeff Passan wrote.

The Braves are aware that Ha-Seong Kim might not return after his strong finish to the regular season. If Kim decides not to come back, it could reset a dilemma the team has been managing.

“Because of this thin market, that would incentivise Kim to test the market. For that same reason, it’s even more important that the Braves find a way to retain his services,” wrote SI’s Harrison Smajovits. “If he opts out and signs elsewhere, they could be back to square one with this dilemma. The offense has had its struggles as is, and they have, at least for now, figured out one of the issues.”

GM Alex Anthopoulos is still leaving the door open for a potential move at the shortstop position.

“Anthopoulos is open to Dubon beginning the season as the Braves shortstop. But there's also a chance he'll play all over the field. His role will be determined by how the remainder of the offseason goes,” Braves insider Mark Bowman posted.

On Friday, the Braves and Dubón agreed on a new contract to avoid arbitration.

“Mauricio Dubon, Braves agree at $6.1M,” MLB’s Jon Heyman wrote.

There is no doubt that Dubón is a great fielder — his Gold Gloves back it up — but his bat can be lackluster at times. That is exactly what the Braves don’t want at that position.

Dubón is expected to be a valuable contributor for the Braves this season and potentially beyond. The team was able to agree on a fair contract, one that isn’t overly burdensome.

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