KISSIMMEE, Fla. (AP) – Jeff Francoeur has made the Atlanta Braves’ opening-day roster with an impressive showing in spring training.
The Braves told the 32-year-old outfielder on Tuesday he will be added to their 25-man major league roster.
Under baseball’s labor contract, the Braves were required to decide by Tuesday whether to keep him, release him or pay a $100,000 retention bonus if he was willing to continue with his minor league contract. Francoeur made it clear he wouldn’t go to Triple-A Gwinnett.
Turns out, that wasn’t an issue. Francoeur earned a backup role by hitting .327 with one homer and four RBIs through 19 spring games.
He is back with his hometown team, where he began his career in 2005 as a heralded prospect who made the cover of Sports Illustrated.