Hero returns to Braves on a minor league deal after being designated for assignment.
The Atlanta Braves have re-signed former postseason hero Eddie Rosario to a minor league contract. Rosario was originally acquired during the pivotal 2021 trade deadline, which saw the Braves overhaul their outfield following Ronald Acuña Jr.’s injury. Unlike his 2021 teammates Jorge Soler, Joc Pederson, and Adam Duvall, Rosario stayed with the Braves for several more years.
The Braves signed Rosario to a minor league deal, starting him in Gwinnett tonight.
After the Braves brought in Jarred Kelenic this past offseason, it was evident that Rosario might not stay in Atlanta. He eventually signed a $3 million contract with the Washington Nationals, hoping for more playing time on a young, rising team.
The Braves signed Eddie Rosario. It’s a minor-league deal. He begins with Gwinnett tonight.
— Justin Toscano (@JustinCToscano) July 5, 2024
Unfortunately, Rosario struggled, hitting .183/.226/.329 with seven homers, 26 runs, 26 RBIs, and eight stolen bases in 67 games (235 plate appearances). His performance varied significantly by month:
The Nationals designated Rosario for assignment on July 1st after promoting top prospect James Wood. If Rosario had enough plate appearances to qualify, his 54 wRC+ would rank as the worst in baseball, with Atlanta’s own Orlando Arcia currently holding that spot with a 60 wRC+.
Signing Rosario to a minor league deal is a low-risk move for the Braves, who have struggled to find a solid third outfielder in Acuña’s absence and need depth with Michael Harris’ hamstring injury.
If Rosario can provide competent major league at-bats, he will be a valuable addition to a team that has recently relied on Ramon Laureano, Forrest Wall, and Luke Williams. Atlanta just optioned Wall back to Gwinnett and recalled Eli White to the big league roster.
While the memory of Rosario’s 2021 heroics remains strong, it should not set expectations for his current performance. This move provides short-term depth and brings back a fan favorite without precluding further upgrades at the trade deadline.
