Braves’ B.J. Upton Eager to Start Over in 2014

ATLANTA (AP) – B.J. Upton wants a do-over.

It’s an understandable wish. After signing the biggest free-agent contract in Braves history, Upton endured a nightmarish 2013 season any player would like to forget.

He hit only .184, struck out in more than one-third of his at-bats and lost his starting job. Playing beside his brother, Justin Upton, in the outfield and seeing the Braves advance to the playoffs were the only highlights of a miserable year.

Spring training is B.J. Upton’s chance for a fresh start. He says he has worked on his swing in the offseason and is writing off his 2013 struggles as an aberration.

Just like last year, the Upton brothers and Jason Heyward are Atlanta’s projected starting outfielders. Pitchers and catchers report to Braves camp on Thursday.