On Saturday, July 24th, the Atlanta Braves designated OF Ender Inciarte for assignment. He batted .215 in 89 plate appearances this season. What does the future hold for the 30-year old outfielder?
Marking his sixth year with the Braves organization, the Braves have been pummeled by injury this season. Star outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. is sidelined for the remainder of the season after tearing his ACL. Marcell Ozuna’s season is unclear after his arrest. The Braves are led in the outfield with Abraham Almonte, Guillermo Heredia, and trading for slugger Joc Pederson.
Inciarte, 30, spent six strong seasons for the Braves, becoming an MLB All-Star in 2017 and earned three Gold Gloves through his tenure. Inciarte’s career average with the team ended at .275. He missed time this season dealing with a right hamstring injury and spent time on the COVID-19 IL.
The Braves are hopeful that Inciarte could remain in the organization. The reason for that being is because he is currently on an 8.7 million dollar contract for this season. If he can clear waivers, the Braves might utilize his depth if they can inch their way to the postseason.
Atlanta does have prospect depth within their organization with Cristian Pache and their number two prospect, Drew Waters. Waters could be a name that Braves fans can get used to soon. Waters is currently playing with AAA Gwinnett, hitting .257, with 7 home runs and 16 stolen bases. As Pache remains AAA looking to hone his craft, Atlanta could be ecstatic with two young prospects on their way to the show.
As for Inciarte, there are a handful of teams that lack outfield depth. It will be interesting to see whether Inciarte will remain in the organization due to his contract. Or, if Atlanta is setting up another trade scenario that could land them with more depth. If Inciarte can stay healthy, teams looking to add a versatile defender to help chances for the postseason.
Some teams who could be in the market for outfielders could be the Pirates, Orioles, Astros, Tigers, or the Cubs. The trade deadline is a few days away, so the hot stove will be burning throughout the week. Will Ender remain in the organization, or find his way onto a new ballclub?
