DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: NL East—3B competition in ATL

Atlanta Braves

Now that Chipper Jones (3B, ATL) has retired, the third base job is up for grabs. Juan Francisco (3B, ATL) and newly acquired Chris Johnson (3B, ATL) will compete for the position this spring.

Francisco hit .265/.296/.497 with 8 HR in 151 AB as a starter last season, but struck out in 20 K in his 41 pinch-hit AB. He has struggled against left-handed pitching in the majors (career .190/.224/.222), but he hit southpaws well during his 2011 minor league campaign (.269 with 6 HR and .798 OPS). The 25-year-old, at the urging of GM Frank Wren, spent the offseason getting into better shape and working on some adjustments to his swing. He hit well in the Dominican Winter League and has made significant strides on both...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

JJ Wetherholt hasn't missed a step since being promoted to Triple-A Memphis
Jul 12 2025 3:05am
Joey Cantillo had a strong performance last time out, but can he do enough to hold onto a spot in the rotation?
Jul 11 2025 3:11am
Kim to see more action at 2B in LA; Ginkel next man up in ARI bullpen; playing time crunch in COL OF; Trenton Brooks seeing playing time in SD; 1B challenges continue in SF
Jul 10 2025 3:10am
As Max Scherzer's sore thumb is having a noticeable impact on his ability to make it through games, where does Toronto's rotation depth stand?
Jul 9 2025 3:07am
Robert Garcia has been struggling of late. Is it time for a new closer in Texas?
FREE
Jul 8 2025 3:05am

Tools