Braves Rumors: Another bat added, Joc Pederson reunion, shortstop battle
By Mark Powell
Braves rumors: Atlanta adds Chad Pinder to infield mix
Alex Anthopoulos values versatility, and that’s exactly what Chad Pinder can bring to this Atlanta ballclub if called upon. Pinder has plenty of experience playing shortstop, second base, third base and both corner outfield spots. He can play pretty much anywhere on the diamond, minus pitcher and catcher, and succeed defensively.
The deal was initially reported by FanSided MLB Insider Robert Murray on Tuesday night.
Source: Free-agent utlityman Chad Pinder is signing with the Atlanta Braves. Pinder, who had previously spent seven seasons with the A’s, was recently released by the Nationals.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) May 10, 2023
The issue with Pinder lately has been his offense. The veteran signed a minor-league deal with the Braves and will most likely report to Gwinnett. It’ll be his second minor-league stint of the season, none of which have worked out so far. Whether it’s his mentality or approach, something has gone wrong with Pinder at the plate. Pinder slashed just .103/.167/.154 with the Reds in spring training, and followed that up with a .218/.308/.309 slash line in Triple-A Rochester.
In Oakland from 2016-22, Pinder had a far more respectable .242/.294/.417 line, which could play in Atlanta, especially as a bench bat. The Braves don’t have a ton of reliable middle infield depth, especially not players who can succeed at multiple positions defensively like Pinder can. He’s an ideal platoon candidate, as MLB Trade Rumors points out, due to his success against left-handed pitching.