BRAVES SHOW LOYALTY TO LOPEZ

by Jack Cobra, Cobra Brigade

You can tell things are slowing down now since I am actually writing a post about the Braves signing catcher Javy Lopez to a minor league deal.

The Braves signed their popular former catcher to a minor-league contract with an invitation to spring training, where the 37-year-old will try to win a job backing up catcher Brian McCann. Lopez hasn't played since being released by Colorado during 2007 spring training, but the Braves think the three-time former All-Star might have enough left to give them a power bat off the bench and to catch once a week or so. After making more than $60 million in 10 seasons from 1997 to 2006, Lopez will draw a $750,000 salary if he makes the Braves' roster in spring training. He'll compete for the backup job with Corky Miller, Brayan Pena and rookie Clint Sammons. General manager Frank Wren said others could still be added to the mix.

In other words, the Braves are being nice by showing some loyalty to a player who helped take them to the playoffs numerous times. Even with a small $750,000 salary it's doubtful the Braves would keep him over a younger player...with an even lower salary. As we get closer and closer to Spring Training you'll see more signings like these.

It's highly doubtful that Lopez can come back and provide any production for the Braves as his strength was always hitting and with a year off from baseball he's probably going to struggle quite a bit to re-acclimate himself to major league pitching.