Heartbreaking responses to the most recent Braves transaction come from Michael Harris and Vaughn Grissom.
Grissom and Harris II were once believed to be cornerstones of future Atlanta lines, but the Braves’ most recent big transaction has split them apart.
Vaughn Grissom has been the subject of multiple trade speculations during the summer. Although Alex Anthopoulos insisted on seeing how much they thought Grissom had skill, it became increasingly obvious over the winter that Grissom would struggle to obtain regular at-bats in Atlanta.
Finally, Grissom was traded for Red Sox pitcher Chris Sale shortly before the 2023 calendar year came to a conclusion. There are risks associated with this trade, but if Sale can maintain his health—a very large if—this is a smart move for Atlanta. However, that doesn’t mean the Braves clubhouse won’t miss Grissom. Grissom’s relationship with Michael Harris II in particular sparked some extremely painful responses once the news was released.
The Troublemakers highlights end before they really even get started
The Braves promoted Grissom and MH2 aggressively in 2022, as they usually do. Following his late May debut, Harris II went on to earn NL Rookie of the Year. The Braves summoned up Vaughn Grissom, who was 21 at the time, in early August of that season to try and cover for Ozzie Albies at second base in light of his injury.
Grissom hit rather well in 2022 (he even hit a home run in his Fenway Park debut), but the Braves were unable to fully commit to him in the long run because to the defense. Grissom’s struggles defensively cost him the starting shortstop position the next season, and it was obvious he would struggle to establish a regular role in Atlanta.
The bond between Harris II and Grissom was well-documented in 2022 as they both rose through the minor league ranks before becoming well-known in Atlanta. Even after their jobs diverged in 2023, their relationship remained unwavering. Harris was devastated by the deal today, as you may understand.
Sad things to see. However, Grissom handled the entire situation like a seasoned pro, expressing gratitude to all of his teammates and Braves supporters who supported him during the process. This team obviously wanted a starter who could compete for a postseason spot, but Anthopoulos talked about how difficult it was to part with a unique skill and individual like Grissom. Upon hearing about the Braves’ intention to include Grissom in the rotation, AA told him, “I can pitch.” We will really be rooting for you as you pursue your major league career in Boston, and we shall truly miss you, Vaughn Grissom.
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