Bud Norris to Braves: Latest Contract Details, Comments, Reaction

After spending the first part of this offseason trading players, the Atlanta Braves have added a pitcher to the mix by signing free agent Bud Norris. 

The Braves confirmed the one-year major league deal with Norris on Twitter. According to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports, Norris will make $2.5 million in 2016.

Norris isn't the free-agent splash Braves fans may be seeking, but he perfectly fits what the front office is trying to do in 2016. The right-hander appeared in 38 games with the Baltimore Orioles and San Diego Padres last season, posting a 6.72 ERA with 71 strikeouts and 15 homers allowed in 83 innings. 

The 30-year-old is a low-risk investment who is one year removed from posting a 3.65 ERA and a 1.216 WHIP in 165.1 innings for Baltimore during its American League East championship run. 

Atlanta is looking long-term with all of its moves this winter. The franchise will be moving into a new park in 2017 and wants to build up its farm system to be ready for that, which will make next season particularly hard.     

The Braves traded star shortstop Andrelton Simmons to the Los Angeles Angels earlier this offseason after moving Craig Kimbrel, Justin Upton, Alex Wood and Jose Peraza in the last 12 months. 

Given the Braves' need for rotation depth behind Shelby Miller and Julio Teheran, assuming neither of those pitchers is dealt, Norris can provide exactly what they are looking for. He's versatile enough to start or relieve and can eat innings. 

There's also the added benefit that if Norris has a bounce-back season, Atlanta can flip him in July for a useful prospect.