Braves: 4 best DH free agent options for Atlanta to sign
By Tim Boyle
Braves DH target: Nelson Cruz
Want to go with something a little more short-term? Nelson Cruz is your answer at the DH spot.
The ageless power-hitting veteran turns 42 this summer. This hasn’t stopped him from raking at the plate. He hit 32 home runs last year. Excluding the shortened 2020 season, you have to go back to 2013 for the last time he didn’t reach 30.
Cruz is more than just a guy who swings for the fences, too. In parts of three seasons with the Minnesota Twins, Cruz slashed .304/.386/.598. It was an impressive showing for a guy already in his late-30s by the time his deal with Minnesota began.
The universal DH will keep Cruz’s career alive for at least another year. A deal with him would probably come with a decent sum for a single season with a possible team option for a second year. However, at his age and no World Series ring to show off, he might be willing to settle for the best possible landing spot over money.
One big knock against Cruz is his unfamiliarity with fielding. From 2019-2021, he has played only 7 innings on defense. He has been relegated to DH duties almost exclusively post-2016.
Still, his power capabilities may be unmatched even when compared to a younger man like Schwarber. Cruz is 51 home runs away from reaching 500. Unlikely to get there in 2022, maybe he can put a big dent in it with a huge year with the Braves as their DH.