ATLANTA — Free-agent outfielder B.J. Upton and the Atlanta Braves have finalized a $75.25 million, five-year contract.
Upton joins the Braves after spending his first eight major-league seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays. He hit .246 with 28 home runs, 78 RBI and 31 steals this year.
Upton, who was to be introduced at a news conference Thursday, replaces free agent Michael Bourn in center field and should provide needed power from the right side.
The addition of Upton leaves Atlanta still needing to fill a void in left field. Martin Prado is expected to move to third base, taking over for the retired Chipper Jones.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.