EMOTIONAL COMEBACK: Braves Sign Journeyman Brewer Hicklen, Setting Up Spring Training Battle for Depth.vc
ATLANTA, GA — The Atlanta Braves have provided one of the offseason’s most uplifting stories, signing veteran outfielder Brewer Hicklen to a minor league contract. This deal, which includes an invitation to Major League Spring Training, sets up a dramatic and emotional battle for a 25-man roster spot, showcasing the team’s commitment to finding high-upside depth.
After a long, winding journey across multiple organizations, Hicklen’s signing is a low-risk, high-reward move for the Braves, betting on his elite physical tools and unshakable grit to win a job.
The Story of Grit: Hicklen’s Long Road
Brewer Hicklen, who will turn 30 before the 2026 season, embodies the perseverance of the minor league grinder. His story is defined by athleticism and perseverance, finally paying off in 2025:
- Elite Tools: Hicklen was originally a two-sport athlete, drafted by the Royals in 2017. He possesses elite speed (125 stolen bases in 410 Triple-A games) and legitimate power (76 Triple-A home runs).
- The Breakthrough: After brief MLB stints with the Royals and Brewers, Hicklen finally secured his long-awaited first Major League hit with the Detroit Tigers in May 2025. Following the moment, he posted an emotional message of resilience: “To anyone that feels defeated, don’t ever give up.”
- The Home State Factor: Hicklen is a native of Huntsville, Alabama, making this signing a compelling return to his home region and adding a personal stake to his final shot at a Major League roster.
The Spring Training Showdown: Center Field Depth
The Braves’ commitment to adding cost-effective speed and defense sets the stage for a fierce competition for the final outfield bench spots in Spring Training 2026.
Hicklen will battle directly against two other non-roster or low-contract players:
| Player | Profile | Strength | Role Contention |
| Brewer Hicklen | Speed, Power, Defensive Versatility | Potential Pinch-Runner/Left-Handed Hitting Platoon | Battling for the 5th OF spot. |
| Michael Siani | Elite Center Field Defense, Speed | Glove-First Late-Inning Defensive Sub | Claimed off waivers; strong defense makes him a favorite. |
| Eli White | Utility, Speed, Right-Handed Bat | Established Fourth Outfielder Status | High floor, reliable depth piece. |
The key takeaway for the Braves is that Brewer Hicklen provides a high-ceiling option who could serve as a valuable pinch-runner or a late-game defensive replacement with the potential to turn into a fourth or fifth outfielder. His minor league slash line of .240/.346/.464 shows he can draw walks and hit for slugging power when given a chance.
For Hicklen, this represents the biggest opportunity of his career—a true emotional comeback battle where his grit and tools could finally earn him a sustained role on a World Series contender.
