3 Braves World Series heroes who won’t be back next season

Braves: Adam Duvall’s flexibility makes him expendable

Duvall starts in left field, but that position could theoretically be manned by Eddie Rosario or Joc Pederson, both of whom are good enough defenders to take over full-time. Duvall is mostly known for his power bat, and there’s a reason Atlanta let him go last offseason, as well.

Duvall hit a grand slam in Game 5 — that can never be taken away from him. But Anthopoulos didn’t acquire four outfielders at the deadline to keep all of them the next season. At least half are rentals — that’s just the way the deadline works.

Soler will cost the most money, while Duvall is the most expendable. He’s a one-trick pony, and doesn’t offer much defensively, even though he has a flare for the dramatic at the plate.

Unless Duvall is willing to take less money to stay in the ATL, it seems likely that Anthopoulos will let him walk, as he’ll be taking up a roster spot for someone more deserving in what’s quickly becoming a crowded Braves outfield. Don’t forget, the rapid emergence of Drew Waters and Cristian Pache complicates matters come Spring Training, as well.

It’s a good problem to have.