Jeff Bennett

Bennett's versatility helped an Atlanta pitching staff that was plagued by injuries as he made four starts, pitched in long relief, was used in a set-up role and even was the team's closer for a brief period. However, beyond his flexibility, there's not much to get excited about. Bennett strikes out too few batters (6.29 K/9IP), doesn't have great control (68:47 K:BB ratio) and likely won't have a high-profile role in the bullpen.

Bennett had two solid starts for the Braves in late September and went 2-1 with a 3.46 ERA and 14:3 K:BB ratio. He hadn't pitched in the majors since 2004. Despite the strong late season showing, Bennett still didn't display great control (just a 45:34 K:BB ratio at Triple-A) or enough strikeouts (just 4.94 K/9IP at Triple-A) to get too excited. The Braves say he'll get a shot at winning a rotation spot next spring, but it's much more likely he'll add depth at Triple-A.

Bennett pitched well out of the bullpen for Triple-A Nashville and will have a chance to win a bullpen spot this year.

The Brewers picked up Bennett in last season's Rule 5 draft and used him quite a bit during the year. He finished with an ERA of 4.79 in 71 1/3 innings pitched, but his performance declined over the second half. He'll be given a chance to win a bullpen spot again in 2005.