Atlanta adds versatile INF Hoy Park via trade
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ATLANTA -- Finding a starting shortstop is the Braves’ primary offseason need. But they also need to create infield depth with players like Hoy Park, who was acquired from the Red Sox in exchange for a player to be named and cash considerations on Friday.
Park hit .202 with five homers and a .641 OPS over 209 plate appearances for the Pirates over the past two seasons. The 26-year-old infielder produced a .687 OPS over 375 plate appearances for Pittsburgh’s Triple-A affiliate (Indianapolis) this past season. He was acquired by the Red Sox on Nov. 23 and designated for assignment on Tuesday.
Though Park doesn’t provide much offensively, Atlanta is hoping to gain value from his ability to play each of the infield positions.
As the Braves prepare for Dansby Swanson's potential departure, they continue to look externally for a starting shortstop. Their two internal options are Orlando Arcia and Vaughn Grissom. Arcia might be a better fit as a bench player, and Grissom could be in Triple-A if he doesn’t have an everyday role in the Majors.
Park and Ehire Adrianza, who recently signed a Minor League deal, are among the other players who will come to Spring Training competing for a spot as a backup infielder.