Atlanta Braves: Predicting 3 potential DH options for 2022

By Mark Powell | Nov 21, 2021

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 08: Michael Conforto #30 of the New York Mets celebrates after being hit by a pitch with the bases loaded to force in the winning run in the bottom of the ninth inning against the Miami Marlins at Citi Field on April 08, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images) /

2 of 3

Jun 13, 2021; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies left fielder Andrew McCutchen (22) hits an RBI double in the fifth inning against the New York Yankees at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports /

Braves rumors: Could Andrew McCutchen be a fit in Atlanta?

Cutch is no longer an All-Star level talent or MVP frontrunner like he was in years past. Instead, McCutchen can struggle to keep up defensively, and he can let it impact him at the plate.

The former Phillie would be an affordable get for Anthopoulos, especially if they spend the money to retain most of their outfield and bring back Freddie Freeman. Cutch hit 27 home runs last season, despite a slash line of .222/.334/.444. Yet, when he’s not asked to be an everyday outfielder, McCutchen’s sole responsibility is to be a reliable force at the plate. That’s something he’s fully capable of doing.

In a Braves lineup full of talent, McCutchen can merely blend in, rather than serve as a high-caliber run producer. Even in a secondary role in Philly, however, Cutch had 30-home run power potential, and drove in 80-plus RBIs in a down season.

Considering the injury risk in the Braves’ outfield, having another player who can at the very least play the corner OF position capably is a plus, too.

Home/Atlanta Braves