Lots of decisions for the Braves in free agency

Now that the Braves have picked a new manager to replace future Hall of Famer Bobby Cox, the team must think about several key free agents that it must either resign or replace before opening up the 2011 season. One very important decision must be made in regards to Eric Hinske. The Braves were able to lock up the super-utility player before the 2010 season on a one-year/1M deal, but Hinske provided such pop off of the bench as well as 68 starts, that the team would likely have to offer a multi-year deal to retain him. Hinkse seemed to be a perfect laid-back fit in the clubhouse and losing him would certainly take away from the “team vibe” as well as from the team’s offensive prowess. Last year Hinske posted his highest batting average since 2006 and mashed eleven home runs in just 281 official at-bats. Hinkse also provided a huge home run in game three of the NLDS that produced bedlam at Turner Field and temporarily gave the Braves a 2-1 lead in the pivotal game three. With Freddie Freeman penciled in at first base, leftfield may be an option for Hinske but he may want to take a bigger deal with perhaps a first base or outfield spot guaranteed at another location.

Troy Glaus likely will not be retained by the Braves. He started out slow in his one year with Atlanta before getting hot in June, but he cooled off after the all-star break. He suffered an injury that required him to be placed on the DL and sent down to Gwinnett for a rehab assignment. Freeman likely will have every opportunity to play first in spring training and Martin Prado will likely be called upon at third base.

In the outfield, the team must decide whether or not to bring back Melky Cabrera (arbitration-eligible) and Rick Ankiel (mutual option) in a crowded outfield. The team likely would want Cabrera back to go with Nate McLouth and Jason Heyward in the outfield.

Several attractive free agents could hit the market after the playoffs end, including two players currently battling in the NLCS. Cody Ross of the Giants likely won’t hit the free agency market as he has one year of arbitration left and the way the former Marlin has played, the Giants would be crazy not to try and lock him up. If they choose not to though, the Braves may pick up where the rumors back in July ended and try and make a play for him. Jayson Werth of the Phillies may be available as well but the price could be steep for the 31-year-old who pounded 46 doubles in the regular season. Plus the team would have to move either him or Heyward as they both play right field.