The Future of the Braves (Third Baseman Edition)

Chipper is the greatest Brave I've watched. However, I voted for Hank on ESPN's greatest Brave poll.

Well, we know who the third baseman is now, but who the third baseman will eventually be is one of the biggest concerns in the Braves organization. Who takes over for Chipper? Does he come via the farm system? via trade? Who do the Braves have in the farm system?

Currently and since 1995, Chipper has been the spectacular third baseman (except for about 2.5 seasons) for the Braves. His red-hot start doused any concerns over whether or not he was still able to compete at 36 years old. His .359/.457/.569 line is still at elite levels, and he even plays better defense than he once did. Yet, his problem is durability. He hasn't played in 150 games since 2003, and there's no reason to believe he'll ever do it again. Still, the Braves can probably count on him being the third baseman for the next 3-4 seasons (depending on whether or not they extend him after next season, but I can't imagine them not).

After a breakout season in 2006, Van Pope put himself on the radar, but since, he's not hit very well in his two years in AA Mississippi. This season, he's been a bit better with a .260/.331/.360 line, but his lack of power doesn't profile well into a corner infield position. At age 24, he could still be worth watching, but it seems like he might be losing his star in the system.

A level down, Eric Campbell has shown real promise. This season, he's hit .268/.354/.505 with 13 HR, 59 RBI, and 9 2B in 51 games with High-A Myrtle Beach. However, he's been a bit inconsistent as he hit .221 last season. Yet, he still has time to get to the majors, and even if Chipper plays another three seasons, he'll be 26 when called up, which gives him plenty of time. It would be best if he developed quickly and had a good year in AA next season just to make sure in case Chipper's foot or groin injuries persist to the point that he might retire.

As you can see, there really isn't too much to be excited about in the farm system. At best, it seems as though Campbell could be the heir apparent to Chipper, but he's still at least two years away. If Campbell can avoid injuries, it is plausible that he could be a suitable replacement in a couple years, but don't get too excited. However, for the next few years, Chipper will be manning third very well, and if Bobby would give him a few more days off, he might stay healthier.