Brian McCann underwent shoulder surgery on Tuesday.  The injury to his shoulder affected his production in 2012, and it ultimately may affect whether the Atlanta Braves exercise their 2013 option on the All-Star catcher.  McCann is expected to make a full recovery and be ready for opening day next season, but the Braves will have to weigh whether to exercise the option and take the risk that he never bounces back or go in another direction.

Frank Wren, the Braves general manager, refused to comment on McCann's status and whether his surgery will affect the team's decision on bringing him back.  However, according to Mark Bradley of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Braves should consider a one year return for McCann.  Bradley does not believe McCann's salary is enough of a deterrent to cause the Braves not to bring him back.


McCann has been with the Braves since Atlanta drafted him in 2002.  He made his debut on June 10, 2005.  Since then, McCann has hit .279/.351/.475.  He is a six-time All-Star with the Braves.  However, this past season was a tough one for him.  McCann hit .230/.300/.399.  It was, by far, his worst season with the Braves.  And that's a concern for Atlanta.

McCann is just 28-years old, but life behind the plate ages a player much quicker than almost any other position.  The Braves must weigh this as they make their decision.  They have had back-to-back disappointing seasons even though 2012 was a good regular season.  They can't afford to make a wrong decision.
Follow @mlbinjurynews