NEW YORK -- After a long debate, the Braves opted to open this season with a seven-man bullpen, which will include Chaz Roe, and a five-man bench, which will include Anthony Recker, serving as a third catcher.
By including Roe and Recker on their Opening Day roster, which was announced Sunday morning, the Braves answered any lingering position-battle questions. Atlanta progressed throughout most of Spring Training planning to open with an eight-man bullpen. But on Friday, manager Brian Snitker indicated that plan had changed.
Once it was revealed the Braves would likely open with a seven-man bullpen, there was reason to wonder which reliever would earn the final roster spot and who would fill the additional opening on the bench.