MLB: Ranking the Biggest Logjams in the League Right Now

5. Atlanta Braves Middle Infield

Major Leaguers: SS Dansby Swanson, 2B Jace Peterson, UTIL Sean Rodriguez

Minor Leaguers: 2B/SS Ozzie Albies, SS Kevin Maitan, 2B Travis Demeritte

Atlanta got a steal when they were able to acquire the first overall pick of the 2015 MLB draft for starter Shelby Miller. The soon-to-be 23-year-old looked like he belonged in his short stint in MLB last season. However, his arrival makes the Braves infield a little more complicated moving forward.

Ozzie Albies came up through the Braves system as a shortstop since being signed as an international free agent in 2013. At 20 years old, he was able to reach Triple-A ball in 2016, which is very impressive. He has an impressive hit tool and above average speed that would play nicely at the top of a lineup. Defensively, knowing that Swanson was firmly entrenched at shortstop, Albies was moved to second base. Having barely played that position, it may be tough on the young infielder to be up-to-speed in the coming year. Although many fans may be clamoring for him.

For the time being, Jace Peterson and Sean Rodriguez will probably platoon next to Swanson for much of 2017. In addition, the Braves have two other talented middle infielders in their farm system as well. They just signed the best international free agent in last year’s class in Kevin Maitan. Yes, he is just 16 years old, but it’s something to keep in mind. Travis Demeritte also hit 25 home runs in the Carolina league this past season.

Albies may be further along, but in the current situation they all may be near the majors at the same time, which would create quite the dilemma for the Braves organization.