Upton Headed to Atlanta on 5-Year Deal

Upton is on his way to the Braves. (MLB)

The Braves scored one of the biggest names on the free agent market, nabbing BJ Upton, according to Jerry Crasnick of ESPN, and others. He’s the first shoe to drop and marks the unofficial start of free agency.

Upton, 28, is scheduled to take a physical in Atlanta tomorrow, according to Mark Bowman of MLB.com.

Bob Nightengale of USA Today tweeted that the Phillies were the runners-up for Upton’s services. They’re still looking for a centerfielder, and now Michael Bourn is definitely on the market as the Braves have gone elsewhere. Also still available are Josh Hamilton and Angel Pagan, among other trade candidates like Dexter Fowler and Denard Span.

Nightengale is reporting that its a five-year deal worth $70 to $75 million.

Pat Gallen

Pat joined Phillies Nation in July 2009, coming over from Examiner.com. As a previous employee of both Comcast SportsNet and the National Basketball Association, Pat prides himself on being a well-rounded individual when it comes to sports. However, the Phillies are first on the list. You’ll usually find Pat chiming in on the Phillies Nation Facebook or Twitter account, weekdays on 97.3 ESPN radio or hosting Phillies Nation TV. He’s also a Senior Writer for the site, and in his free time is a music enthusiast and Will Ferrell movie-follower. His favorite beer: Philly’s own Yards. In 2015, Pat moved on from Phillies Nation as a sports anchor and reporter for CBS-3 in Philadelphia.