The Atlanta Braves have avoided arbitration with star center fielder Michael Bourn, signing the 30-year old to a one-year deal worth $6,845,000 million. This was the final year Bourn would be eligible for arbitration and will see a pay raise of $2.5 million from last year. He will become a free agent once the 2012 season ends.
The club has also agreed to pay Jair Jurrjens $5.5 million dollars in 2012 after reaching an agreement with the starting pitcher on Tuesday afternoon. This number is substantially lower than what many felt he would be paid after a huge first half, but injury concerns and regression in the final two months put a damper on Jurrjens' season.
Along with Martin Prado and Eric O'Flaherty, the Braves have now come to an agreement with each of their arbitration eligible players. The four will earn a combined $15 million in the upcoming season.
With these negotiations out of the way, look for Frank Wren to look at any and all options to acquire a corner outfielder and/or a utility player for the infield.
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