Francoeur, Braves reach agreement
Outfielder Jeff Francoeur agreed to a one-year contract with the Atlanta Braves worth $3,375,000, avoiding a salary arbitration hearing.
The two sides came to an agreement shortly before midnight Wednesday at the midway point between their two offers, just hours before they were scheduled to fly to Arizona for a Friday hearing.
The deal includes a $25,000 bonus if Francoeur reaches 685 plate appearances.
“I’m so glad to have this done with,” Francoeur said. “Everyone did a great job of getting this done with so I don’t have to go out there. I’m happy, excited and looking forward to this season.”
Francoeur, 25, is hoping to bounce back from a dismal season in which he batted .239 with 11 homers and 71 RBI. He was even sent briefly to the minors in hopes to working through his problems.
Utley progressing: Chase Utley rattled off a list of postseason memories without mentioning his defensive gem in the World Series clincher.
No surprise there. The three-time All-Star second baseman is one of the most unassuming star athletes in any sport.
Utley played a major role in helping the Philadelphia Phillies capture their first World Series title since 1980 and only the second in franchise history. He’d rather talk about his teammates than any of his accomplishments.
Utley had surgery on his right hip on Nov. 24, so he couldn’t take batting practice all winter.
Utley is optimistic he’ll be ready for opening day against Atlanta on April 5.