31 Mar

march madness

Surprised that the Atlanta Braves would trade Josh Anderson, essentially anointing former Mississippi Brave Jordan Schafer as the opening day center fielder? A little, yes. Anderson figured to be the safe bet to start the season; he played well in his big league trial last year and has had a good spring. The Braves could have started Schafer at Triple-A Gwinnett, then bumped him up if Anderson struggled. But Schafer has had a great spring. He apparently forced the Braves’ hand. Anderson, out of minor league options, had to be dealt. Schafer’s tools were obvious during his time in Pearl last season: quick bat, plus speed, strong arm. He just didn’t do a whole lot when it came to getting big hits or making big plays in the field. Though he was the organization’s No. 1 prospect in 2008, he didn’t carry the M-Braves to the Southen League championship. Several others played bigger roles than Schafer. Plus, he showed some attitude that won’t fly in Atlanta under Bobby Cox. Perhaps Schafer has seen the light. The Braves seem to think so. Now, they still have to figure out what to do with ex-M-Brave Gregor Blanco. Do they keep him as fifth outfielder? Are they still considering sending Schafer down to start the season? We shall see very soon.
P.S. Former Ole Miss star David Dellucci will start the season on the disabled list for Cleveland. Dellucci has a calf injury. … Former Itawamba CC standout Jonathan Van Every, vying for a job with the Boston Red Sox, is also disabled, having suffered a severe ankle sprain in mid-March that could keep him out of action until mid-April.

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