MLB Free Agency 2017: 5 potential teams for Matt Wieters

3. Atlanta Braves

As a South Carolina native and a Georgia Tech alum, the connection between Wieters and the Braves was almost instantly made after the Orioles chose not to extend a qualifying offer. Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports dismissed Atlanta’s potential interest in Wieters as “lukewarm” earlier this month, but they have been aggressive enough early this offseason that any further moves can’t be ruled out.

The Braves may be another of the teams with interest in Jason Castro. But, like Tampa Bay, it’s unclear how seriously Castro would consider signing with them after a last place finish in 2016.

It’s hard to say if any Atlanta-area baseball fans fondly remember Wieters from his days at Georgia Tech, were essentially a decade ago now. But it’s possible he would be an extra ticket draw as the Braves move into a new stadium next season, and the hiring of former Orioles’ coaches Dave Wallace and Dominic Chiti give Wieters two potential advocates from within the organization. If Wieters really wants to play closer to home, the Braves may be able to name their price.