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Alex Verdugo scarcely misplayed a ball in left field for the Yankees last year.

But boy did he ever misplay free agency.

He signed with the Braves for $1.5 million and did it so late he had to be sent to Triple-A Gwinnett until he’s ready.

The Pirates pursued and were prepared to sign Verdugo early, floating $8M plus (but eventually used that same money for Tommy Pham and Andrew Heaney).