With just a week to go before Opening Day, Atlanta Braves fans are on the edge of their seats, waiting to see how a few key roster spots shake out. The spotlight is on veteran players like Dominic Smith, Kyle Farmer, and Martín Pérez, who are in camp as non-roster invitees.
These players, each boasting six or more years of MLB service, are at a critical juncture. By Saturday, March 21, under Article XX(B) rules, the team must decide if they’ll break camp with the big league squad.
If not, they’ll have the freedom to seek opportunities elsewhere.
The Braves' roster decisions are gaining clarity, partly thanks to this lesser-known rule. Injuries to Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep have opened doors, especially for Martín Pérez. The 2022 All-Star now has a solid chance to slide into the rotation as the fifth or sixth starter.
The situation for Kyle Farmer and Dominic Smith has also shifted dramatically. With Jurickson Profar sidelined due to a second PED suspension, both players find themselves in a prime position to make the team, particularly with the designated hitter spot now up for grabs.
Pérez’s spring has been a mixed bag. While his 2.84 ERA over 12.1 innings is promising, his 5.33 FIP and 20% HR/FB rate raise some eyebrows. Bryce Elder’s lack of options and Didier Fuentes’ dominant spring performance add layers to the decision-making process regarding Pérez.
For Farmer and Smith, the odds seem to favor at least one making the cut. Smith, initially a longshot due to his primary roles at first base and DH, now has a clearer path with Profar out.
Farmer, on the other hand, has been swinging a hot bat with a .931 OPS over 35 at-bats and brings valuable defensive versatility. Brett Wisely, though on the 40-man roster, is Farmer’s main competition, but Farmer’s proven track record could tip the scales in his favor.
As these decisions unfold, the Braves’ Opening Day roster will come into sharper focus, providing fans with a clearer picture of the team’s direction this season.