The Atlanta Braves needed a veteran pitcher in their rotation and as the Oakland Athletics have parted ways with Bartolo Colon, should the team go after the 40-year-old right hander? Here's a reason why the numbers say the Braves should consider the acquisition.
The first thing Braves fans might remember is the 2012 PED's allegation that saw Colon serve a 50-game suspension. How would fans or the organization expect to believe Colon is still clean?
Well, as MLB Trade Rumors points out, Colon had no trouble proving he was clean in 2013 and he had a solid season. He was efficient, winning 18 games, pitching 190 innings and though his fastball has diminished, Colon has excellent control, only walking 29 batters. All of these numbers mounted to a 2.65 ERA his lowest since 2002 when he pitched for the Cleveland Indians and Montreal Expos.
With that being said, 2002 was the last time Colon pitched in the National League. Since then, he has gone on to win a Cy Young award (2005) with the Los Angeles Angels and bounced around the majors, playing for the Boston Red Sox, Chicago White Sox and New York Yankees before landing in Oakland.
Yes, he is turning 41 in 2014, but the Braves are seeking to resign Tim Hudson, who is close to 40 and has had his share of troubles throughout the last few seasons. Who knows what Hudson will give the Braves if they resign the veteran? He is coming off a devastating ankle injury that ended his 2013 campaign. Colon is also experienced in the postseason, though his numbers are not quite impressive, going 2-4 with a 3.70 ERA in 10 starts.
The Braves need a veteran pitcher who will not implode in pressure situations. He might not be an ace anymore, but Colon could surely contribute to any club any five days.
How do Braves fans or Colon fans feel about a possible home in Atlanta for the heavy-set veteran right-hander?
