But that plan was scrapped after about a week, when the Braves decided they'd rather pay A.J. Pierzynski more money than to give Bethancourt a chance to develop for a team out of the postseason race.
When Pierzynski opted to re-sign last week, it was revealed that the plan was for him to split time next season. But it remains to be seen whether Pierzynski will share the catching role again with Bethancourt, a 24-year-old who has seen the value of his rocket arm overshadowed by physical and mental mistakes behind the plate.
"There is so much talent and tools there [with Bethancourt], you have to let it play out," Braves general manager John Coppolella said.