Braves Sign Garrett Cooper to Minor League Deal

ATLANTA, Ga. — The Atlanta Braves have signed veteran first baseman Garrett Cooper to a minor league contract, the team announced Tuesday. The deal includes an invitation to Spring Training, where Cooper will compete for a spot on the big league roster.

Cooper, 34, is an eight-year MLB veteran who spent the majority of his career with the Miami Marlins, earning an All-Star selection in 2022. However, he has become a journeyman in recent years, splitting the 2023 season between the Marlins, San Diego Padres, Chicago Cubs, and Boston Red Sox. Last season, he posted a combined slash line of .206/.276/.299 with one home run and 11 RBIs in 36 games.

Despite his recent struggles, Cooper has a strong track record against left-handed pitching, boasting a .284/.353/.472 slash line with 76 RBIs in 514 plate appearances against southpaws. He also excels with runners in scoring position, hitting .291/.372/.472 with 19 home runs and 177 RBIs in such situations throughout his career.

With Matt Olson firmly entrenched as Atlanta’s everyday first baseman, Cooper’s path to the roster likely lies in the outfield. He has played 77 career games in the outfield, primarily in right field, and could provide depth while Ronald Acuña Jr. recovers from a torn ACL. “He’s a versatile player who can help us in multiple ways,” said a Braves spokesperson. “His experience and ability to hit lefties make him a valuable addition.”

Cooper’s journey over the past two seasons has been tumultuous. After being traded from the Marlins to the Padres in 2023, he signed a minor league deal with the Cubs last winter. He was later designated for assignment and traded to the Red Sox, where he struggled before being released. He briefly joined the Baltimore Orioles’ Triple-A affiliate but was hampered by injuries.

While his recent MLB performance has been underwhelming, Cooper showed promise in Triple-A last season, posting a .914 OPS over 84 plate appearances with the Norfolk Tides. “He’s still got something left in the tank,” said an MLB scout. “If he can stay healthy, he could be a useful piece for the Braves.”

The Braves have been active in adding veteran depth this offseason, signing several players to minor league deals. Cooper joins a group that includes former Marlins teammate Adam Duvall and outfielder Jordan Luplow, as Atlanta looks to bolster its outfield options ahead of the 2024 season.