Braves sign former Jays slugger

Alex Anthopoulos and Jose Bautista are reunited with the Braves, with the general manager taking a flier on one of his former All-Stars.

The Braves signed Bautista to a one-year minor-league deal Tuesday. He reported to extended spring training in Florida, and the team will determine which affiliate he’ll report to when he’s up to game speed.

Bautista was announced as a third baseman, a position he hasn’t manned regularly since 2008 and has played only 12 times since the start of the 2012 season.

Bautista, 37, played for the Blue Jays during Anthopoulos’ entire general manager tenure (2009-15). Toronto acquired Bautista when Anthopoulos was J.P. Ricciardi’s assistant GM. He made the American League All-Star team from 2010-15.

“Good opportunity for us,” Anthopoulos said. “A lot of upside, clearly. Seen him play a lot of third base in his career. We had an MVP candidate in ( Josh) Donaldson there (at third in Toronto). Didn’t have the year he’s capable of last year, but I know there’s certain things you know you’re going to get with Jose. He’s going to be in tremendous shape. He’s going to work hard, study hard, and he comes to win and he plays to win.”

The parties had brief discussions in winter, but no agreement was ever close. Bautista reached out to Anthopoulos to touch base Friday, and conversations Saturday led the GM to believe a deal was realistic.

Bautista declined a more lucrative offer elsewhere to sign with the Braves, Anthopoulos confirmed. Sanchez hurt in pregame warmups: The Braves placed starting pitcher Anibal Sanchez on the 10-day disabled list Wednesday with a right hamstring strain.

Sanchez collapsed while running sprints in the outfield before the Braves’ game against the Phillies.

Sanchez appeared motionless for a few minutes while team trainers addressed him. Braves manager Brian Snitker and several teammates joined the scrum.

Sanchez was carted off the field with his left leg in an air cast.