The Atlanta Braves, renowned for their strategic signings, have not been immune to monumental missteps in the free-agent market. These misguided acquisitions have left a mark on the team’s history, serving as cautionary tales for future dealings. Let’s delve into five of the most regrettable million-dollar free-agent deals that have plagued the Braves over the years.
B.J. Upton – A Swift Descent
In a significant move back in 2012, the Braves secured B.J. Upton from the Tampa Bay Rays with a substantial five-year, $75.25 million contract. The allure of Upton’s near 30-30 season performance and his dynamic skill set seemed promising. Paired with his brother Justin on the team, the Upton duo was poised to make a significant impact.
However, the fairy tale quickly unraveled as Upton’s performance plummeted after joining the Braves. Struggling to replicate his prior success, his batting average nosedived, and his strikeouts soared, culminating in a premature exit from the team after just two lackluster seasons. The once-promising center fielder’s career spiraled downwards, leaving behind a hefty contract and unfulfilled expectations.
Kenshin Kawakami – A Troubled Transition
The Braves ventured into uncharted territory by signing Kenshin Kawakami, the first Japanese-born player in their ranks, to a three-year, $23 million deal in 2009. Hopes were high for Kawakami, given his impressive track record in the Nippon Professional Baseball league.
Unfortunately, Kawakami struggled to find his footing in the MLB, with his performance dwindling steadily. Despite a promising start, his effectiveness waned, leading to a premature departure from the team after just two tumultuous seasons. The failed experiment highlighted the challenges of transitioning between baseball cultures and the risks associated with international signings.
Bruce Sutter – A Costly Investment
In a bid to bolster their bullpen, the Braves inked Bruce Sutter, a decorated closer, to a lucrative six-year, $9.6 million contract in 1985. Sutter’s stellar resume and accolades made him an attractive prospect for the team, but persistent injuries hampered his performance throughout his tenure with the Braves.
Struggling to replicate his past success, Sutter battled with recurring shoulder issues that ultimately forced an early retirement. The financial ramifications of the deal were exacerbated by deferred payments, leaving the Braves entangled in a prolonged payout process long after Sutter’s departure. The failed investment underscored the unpredictable nature of player contracts and the enduring financial burdens they can impose.
Bartolo Colón – The Short-Lived Experiment
In a surprising move, the Braves signed veteran pitcher Bartolo Colón to a one-year, $12.5 million deal in 2017, hoping to capitalize on his previous successes with the New York Mets. However, Colón’s stint with the Braves proved to be a spectacular disappointment.
Struggling to find his form, Colón’s performance plummeted, culminating in his early release from the team after a string of lackluster outings. The failed experiment with Colón highlighted the inherent risks of short-term deals and the unpredictability of player performance, even for seasoned veterans.
Derek Lowe – A Fading Star
Amid high expectations, the Braves acquired Derek Lowe in 2009 to fortify their pitching rotation. Lowe’s impressive track record and postseason experience made him an appealing addition to the team. However, Lowe’s performance failed to meet expectations, with his ERA steadily climbing over his three-year tenure with the Braves.
Struggling to recapture his past glory, Lowe’s underwhelming performances led to his eventual trade to the Cleveland Indians, marking a disappointing end to his brief stint with the Braves. The failed investment in Lowe underscored the challenges of maintaining consistency in player performance and the risks associated with long-term contracts.
In conclusion, the Atlanta Braves’ history is dotted with cautionary tales of million-dollar free-agent deals gone awry. These ill-fated signings serve as poignant reminders of the uncertainties and risks inherent in professional sports, shedding light on the complexities of player acquisitions and the enduring impact of misguided investments.