KEVIN MCALPIN
680 THE FAN ATLANTA – With less than two weeks to go until the start of Spring Training, the Braves still had one glaring weakness in the middle of the order. That hole was plugged up on Friday night as the club announced a four-year deal with Marcell Ozuna, worth $64 million dollars. Ozuna’s contract also includes a club option for a fifth year, worth $16 million, with a $1 million dollar buyout.

Had it not been for the incredible 2020 campaign constructed by Freddie Freeman, Ozuna would’ve likely garnered much more support for the NL MVP award. Ozuna led the league with 18 homers and drove in an NL best 56 runs during the 60 game sprint. Ozuna’s season was nearly historic, as he entered the final day of the regular season with a chance at a Triple Crown, something that hasn’t happened in the National League since 1939.

From day one, Ozuna fit right in with this group. He brought a ton of energy to the field on a nightly basis and was always looking to “mix it up” with his teammates. He was also able to perfect his selfie game on big home runs or memorable moments with his teammates in the dugout. And it’s no coincidence Freddie Freeman’s numbers were as strong as they were with the presence of Ozuna right behind him in Brian Snitker’s order.

While it seemed like everyone else in the NL East was making moves to get better for the upcoming season, some fans were getting restless. But, never fear Braves fans. Ozuna is back in the heart of the order for at least the next four years…a window that certainly gives the club a chance at hoisting a World Series trophy.

Kevin McAlpin has covered the Braves since 2012 for @680TheFan and the @BravesRadioNet