Eury Perez is expected to see a lot of work in center field this spring with Melvin Upton Jr. (foot) out of action, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Perez is expected to see a lot of work in center field this spring with Melvin Upton Jr. (foot) out of action, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Analysis:

Upton is expected to miss at least the first month of the regular season with inflammation in his left foot, and Perez is among the top replacement candidates. Designated for assignment by the Yankees following the Stephen Drew signing, Perez never received an extended opportunity in the majors while with New York, logging a mere 23 plate appearances in parts of three seasons. The 24-year-old has, however, impressed in 193 games at the Triple-A level, batting .310 with a .354 OBP and 63 steals in 79 attempts. Perez seems like the early favorite to be the Braves' Opening Day center fielder, but Eric Young Jr., Todd Cunningham and even Zoilo Almonte will be considered.