3 moves Braves should make after finally re-signing Freddie Freeman

1. Extend SS Dansby Swanson to avoid frustrations heading into next offseason

While bringing back either Joc Pederson, Eddie Rosario or Jorge Soler to keep Atlanta’s outfield strong should be a priority, Atlanta should learn from its lesson regarding Freeman and apply it to another franchise cornerstone: Shortstop Dansby Swanson. Though he is not the All-Star-level player of Freeman, he is instrumental to this team’s overall culture and is worthy of re-signing.

Though Swanson was not drafted by the Braves, he has only played at the highest level for his hometown team. While the offense comes and goes, Swanson is excellent defensively. At the plate, he demonstrated tremendous power last season, despite being moved up and down the batting order all year long. More importantly, he will be an impending free agent next winter.

No, Swanson is not going to be anywhere near as expensive as Freeman, but the Braves should not leave it to chance he has a career year in a contract year. Though he may be loyal to Atlanta and Braves Country, baseball is a business and money talks. While he is not getting top dollar like the free-agent shortstops are getting this offseason, a rising tide lifts all boats. He will get paid.

Extending Riley and Swanson, as well as re-signing an outfielder should not be that difficult.