The Braves decided to keep Freddie Freeman around for a long time:

The Atlanta Braves have agreed to eight-year deal with first baseman Freddie Freeman that is worth about $125 million, a person familiar with the talks told The Associated Press on Tuesday.

The person confirmed the agreement on condition of anonymity because the Braves haven’t announced the deal, which is subject to a successful physical.

The team also avoided arbitration with Jason Heyward by signing him to a two-year deal. Both play 2014 as 24-year-olds, but Heyward has been inconsistent and injury prone, while Freeman blossomed in 2013 into a great hitter. With a year to go before they reach their primes, the best should be ahead for both hitters. The Braves hope they will form a solid core.