Rafael Furcal signs with Los Angeles Dodgers
Rafael Furcal bid the Braves goodbye as he signed a hefty 3-year, $39.5 million contract with the Dodgers. The Braves could not match the the Dodgers’ salary offer, which was apparently the most important factor in Furcal’s decision. Furcal’s departure means a new shortstop and/or leadoff hitter hitter will be at the top of John Schuerholz’s shopping list this holiday season. However, the Braves are by no means bereft of shortstop talent in the organization. Wilson Betemit is excelling in the Dominican Winter League this offseason, hitting .296 with 6 homers and 20 RBIs in 142 at-bats. 23-year-old phenom Yunel Escobar is expected to be ready for the major leagues sometime next season and 17-year-old Elvis Andrus may have the brightest future of them all.
You haven’t added the addition of Edgar Renteria yet. Renteria will start next year unless he gets traded again. Wilson Betemit may get traded this year as well. Renteria will be a solid addition to the Braves. I expect him to once again put up all star numbers.
Comment by Mike — Dec 20, 2005 @ 2:46 pm
The Renteria news is now up. Sorry for the delay. Betemit surely might help bring in that badly-needed closer or left fielder. But if the Braves can somehow finagle a closer without parting with their backup-extraordinaire, you really have to love the infield and the depth of it they’ve assembled for 2006.
Comment by Matthew Crowder — Dec 25, 2005 @ 3:40 pm