NL East Notes: Braves interested in Ryan Raburn, Nationals boast deep bullpen

Even after signing veteran Ryan Howard to a minor league deal, the Braves want to upgrade their bench and are interested in Ryan Raburn, according to ESPN’s Jerry Crasnick.

Raburn could prove to be a valuable pinch hitter against left-handed pitchers and is capable of playing either corner outfield spot. He appeared in 113 games with the Rockies last season.

Though Raburn hit just .220/.309/.404 with nine home runs and 30 RBIs in 2016, he is a career .253 hitter and would add another versatile piece to Atlanta’s bench.

Here’s the latest from around the National League East:

• MLB has changed the way it calculates a pitcher’s velocity, and Mets right-hander Matt Harvey is among those who seemingly benefit the most.

• It’s probably time for Phillies fans to stop booing Jayson Werth, who has been among Washington’s more productive outfielders.

• Derek Jeter is interested in buying the Marlins, which would add a notable element to one of baseball’s younger franchises.

• The Nationals seemingly have one of the deeper bullpen’s in baseball, but would you call it one of the best as a result?

• Matt Kemp exited Atlanta’s loss Friday because of a right leg issue, which ideally for the Braves wouldn’t be too serious.