Braves sign Bud Norris

The Atlanta Braves announced the signing of right-handed starting pitcher Bud Norris to a one-year deal on Wednesday. 

According to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports, Norris will make $2.5 million next season. 

Norris, who will be 31 by Opening Day, had a down year in 2015. He went 3-11 with a 6.72 ERA in 38 appearances (11 starts) between the Orioles and Padres. He struck out 71 and walked 31 in his 83 innings pitched, good for a 5.04 FIP.

Prior to last season, Norris had always been a reliable starting pitcher, spending time with the Astros along with the two aforementioned clubs. 

From 2011 to 2014, Norris posted a 4.06 ERA and 4.08 FIP over 696 1/3 innings coming over 120 appearances (118 starts).

The Braves are counting on Norris to rebound in 2016, with the possibility that they could trade him at the trade deadline if he has a nice first half. This appears to be a low-risk, possibly high-reward signing for Atlanta. 

Regardless, Norris adds much-needed depth to the Braves rotation. He will slot in behind the likes of Shelby Miller, Julio Teheran, Matt Wisler, and Manny Banuelos next season. 

--Devan Fink

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