Braves pick up 2006 option for John Thomson
Barring a trade, John Thomson will again be the 3rd veteran starter in the Braves’ rotation come next season. That’s because the team picked up his 2006 option for $4.75 million on Tuesday. There was some uncertainty as to whether the Braves would exercise the option due to his subpar performance after returning from an injury to his right middle finger in May. But the Braves concluded the price was a bargain considering his excellent work during the 2nd half of 2004 and the first 2 months of last season. With the team budget contracting and arbitration raises for fellow starters Jorge Sosa and Horacio Ramirez on the way, there’s little doubt at least 1 of the 3 pitchers will be traded. The Braves have weaknesses in the bullpen, in the outfield, and at shortstop (if Rafael Furcal exits via free agency) to address.
