The Braves have not revealed how they will create a roster spot for Francoeur, who signed a Minor League deal on Feb.
24. Although identity of the player to move has not been announced, the club to either trade Michael Bourn or potentially eat the $1.25 million deal that Emilio Bonifacio signed in December.
Francoeur stood out as one of the Braves' most popular players dating back to when he was selected by them in the first round of the 2002 Draft. The suburban Atlanta native homered in his Major League debut on July 7, 2005, and graced the cover of Sports Illustrated a month later.
Though Francoeur proved productive through his first two Major League seasons, he began to decline and was traded to the Mets during the 2009 season. He has since played for the Rangers, Royals, Giants, Padres and Phillies.
But now, Francoeur is truly coming home to strengthen the Braves' bench with his right-handed power potential. He can capably handle both corner outfield spots and he has acquainted himself with center field over the past few weeks.
Francoeur has recorded four hits, including a double, in his past seven Spring Training at-bats and will enter Tuesday night's game against the Orioles with a .327 (16-for-49) batting average and one home run. He has eight hits, including three doubles and a homer, in 20 at-bats against left-handed pitchers this spring.
While playing for the Phillies last year, Francoeur fared better against right-handers (.769 OPS in 202 plate appearances) than left-handers (.645 OPS in 141 plate appearances). He also enhanced his attractiveness off the bench by batting .367 and driving in 11 runs in 31 pinch-hit plate appearances.
--- Source: MLB.com