The Atlanta Braves are attempting to solve their injury issues by signing a former three-time All-Star to boost positional depth.
Whit Merrifield, a veteran utility player, is signing with the Braves, several reports say. ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported that Merrifield had signed a major league contract to join the Braves.
Superutilityman Whit Merrifield and the Atlanta Braves are in agreement on a major league deal, sources tell ESPN. Merrifield was released recently by Philadelphia. He’ll join the Braves today and help provide depth after the injury to All-Star second baseman Ozzie Albies.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) July 22, 2024
The Braves urgently need the assistance, despite Merrifield’s poor performance this season. They’re already without Ronald Acuna Jr. for the remainder of the season, and they suffered another major loss over the weekend. Merrifield will most likely receive extensive playing time due to the Braves’ current small roster.
The Phillies were praised for acquiring Merrifield throughout the summer, but the move did not pan out for them. At the time of his release, he was hitting.199 with a.572 OPS this season. He was an All-Star as recently as last year, and the Braves are hopeful he can regain some of his old form.
