Hinske good, McLouth bad

[love_that_reefer]

The Braves announced today they've exercised their option on first baseman/outfielder Eric Hinske and declined their option on center fielder Nate McLouth.

The Braves chose Hinske's $1.5MM club option over a $100K buyout. The 34-year-old hit .233/.311/.403 in 264 plate appearances this year.

The decision on McLouth was obvious, as the Braves faced a $10.65MM club option and a $1.25MM buyout. The 30-year-old outfielder hit .228/.344/.333 on the season.

Both are pretty much no-brainers. Hinske is a valuable bench member and McLouth is a 4th OFer somewhere. Braves could bring him back for just that role but I doubt it.

[Kingdom]

They have a cheaper, better back up option in Constanza. And he can field well. McLoss is unnecessary.