an open door

With every passing day, the chances look better that 2008 Mississippi Braves standout Tommy Hanson is going to be in the Atlanta Braves’ rotation next spring. Atlanta couldn’t make a deal for Jake Peavy, lost out on free agent A.J. Burnett and could even lose John Smoltz, who is rumored to be looking elsewhere. Who knows about Tom Glavine? Atlanta might have to turn to the farm system to fill out the 2009 rotation and simply endure some growing pains. Besides, Hanson, a big, hard-throwing right-hander, just might be ready for the big-time. He dominated in A-ball last summer, pitched very well for the Double-A M-Braves (including a no-hitter) and stepped up with a tremendous performance in the Arizona Fall League. Hanson has outstanding stuff and a commanding presence on the mound. For sure, the Braves are wary of rushing him, but they may have no choice. And Hanson deserves the chance. Fellow ’08 M-Braves right-handers Todd Redmond and Kris Medlen aren’t far behind. Redmond was the M-Braves’ ace and the Southern League pitcher of the year. Medlen is a very athletic, highly energetic battler. All three could be in Atlanta by the end of 2009. And that wouldn’t be such a bad thing.
P.S. Former Ole Miss and Hillcrest Christian standout Cody Satterwhite impressed some people in his first year in the Detroit Tigers’ organization. The hard-throwing right-hander is rated Detroit’s No. 8 prospect by Baseball America and given a chance to make the big leagues in 2009. Satterwhite is pitching in relief again in the minors after struggling as a starter last spring at Ole Miss.