Braves reportedly sign $131M former MVP, Gold Glove winner to turn around collapsing season

The Atlanta Braves are searching for any way to get back on track, no matter what it takes. Just a few weeks ago, Atlanta looked like the best team in baseball, but things have unraveled quickly.

The Braves' disastrous month of June is finally over after their once 10-game division lead shrank to just 2.5 games. To close the month, Atlanta won only four of its final 17 games.

“Given what Braves fans have witnessed over the past few weeks, they’ll likely find this as comforting as a root canal. But it’s worth noting Atlanta won’t be joining some exclusive club if it reaches the playoffs after losing 13 of its final 17 games in June,” MLB.com’s Mark Bowman wrote.

While the trade deadline is expected to be a major focus over the next month, the Braves have already begun adding veteran depth. It started last weekend with the signing of Carlos Santana.

“Veteran first baseman Carlos Santana and the Atlanta Braves are in agreement on a minor league contract, sources tell ESPN. Santana, 40, will head to Triple-A, where he provides insurance for Atlanta and can try to get back to the big leagues after being released by Arizona,” ESPN’s Jeff Passan posted.

Now, the Braves have decided to sign Andrew McCutchen to a minor league deal.

“The Braves have signed OF Andrew McCutchen to a Minor League deal. Like Carlos Santana, McCutchen will have a chance to prove himself with Triple-A Gwinnett. If nothing else, both are good clubhouse guys who can positively influence the prospects playing for Gwinnett,” Bowman posted.

Signing McCutchen is a meaningful move for Atlanta. At the very least, he and Santana will provide valuable leadership and mentorship for the organization's younger players. The Braves are also searching for offensive production, and if McCutchen proves he can still hit, he could earn a platoon role if given the opportunity.

McCutchen has earned more than $131 million over the course of his MLB career. The former National League MVP and Gold Glove winner now has another opportunity to work his way back to the major leagues. If either McCutchen or Santana earns a promotion to Atlanta, their veteran presence could provide the spark the Braves have been searching for.

More MLB news: