Atlanta Braves

The following Braves are eligible for free agency: Darren Bragg, Vinny Castilla, Julio Franco, Matt Franco, Roberto Hernandez, Darren Holmes, Javy Lopez, Greg Maddux, Kent Mercker, Shane Reynolds, and Gary Sheffield.

Atlanta paid the $100,000 buyout on Reynolds' $3M option. Several of the biggest names on the free agent market this off-season are coming from the Braves. Maddux failed to make himself indispensable to the Braves in 2003, so I don't believe he'll spend another season in Atlanta. The Padres have money to spend entering their new stadium in the spring and should pursue Maddux. St. Louis and Philadelphia could also make inquiries. Meanwhile, I expect the Braves to try to bring Kevin Millwood back to Atlanta.

We expect Javy Lopez to sign with Baltimore, but the Padres, Cubs and even the Brewers likely all will show interest. I feel Sheffield is the most likely of the Braves big name free agents to return to Atlanta next year. The Yankees, Orioles, and Devil Rays should provide the Braves with competition for Sheffield's services.

The Braves off-season will be a success if Atlanta retains Gary Sheffield or acquires a comparable outfielder.