Braves Rumors: 3 players who won’t be on the roster by July 1

Braves who won’t be back: Kevin Pillar

A veteran like Kevin Pillar could come in handy if the Braves are able to keep him around, but they may not be able to, at least not on the 26-man active roster. Pillar doesn’t receive all that much playing time despite being able to play most outfield positions. He’s no longer an electric centerfielder, as he’s slowed a bit and better suited for the corners. His bat doesn’t allow more ABs than, say, a Sam Hilliard or Eddie Rosario.

Atlanta’s left field situation is a sad one, and it’s another reminder that Alex Anthopoulos has some serious work to do. Whether that problem is solved this month or next, Pillar likely is not the answer at the position.

Pillar’s team-first mentality has been a hit with his Braves teammates, and there’s certainly a spot for him in the clubhouse if they are able to keep him around, or perhaps pass the veteran through waivers. That’ll be easier said than done, though, as Pillar is at least replacement level. Those players tend to get scooped up.

“The conversations with Alex about what I really wanted to get out of the last couple of years of my career — I told him that I’m ready for this role, I’m ready to embrace it,” Pillar said, per The Athletic. “He knows me really well. I still want to play every day, but I’m also in a position maturity-wise to understand I have a role. There’s players on this team that are everyday players. I play when they ask me to play. I prepare myself for opportunities.”

Pillar is in a really good place mentally. Perhaps Atlanta finds a way to get him more consistent at-bats, but for now, it’s unclear exactly how he’ll end the month on the roster.