The Atlanta Braves still want to bring Dansby Swanson back for the long term. The interest is there on both sides to get a deal done, but it is a matter of making the math work out. That could be the most difficult part.
For the Braves, it may well be Swanson or Bust in the shortstop market. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, if Swanson does not return to Atlanta, they are done shopping at the higher end of the shortstop market.
Atlanta Braves may have Dansby Swanson replacement in house
It is possible that the Braves look at a potential veteran bargain as a stopgap at the position. The likes of Elvis Andrus and Andrelton Simmons are available in free agency and will not cost much. However, it is far more likely that the Braves look to fill that opening from within, especially after Vaughn Grissom had a strong showing last season.
Grissom had been considered one of the Braves’ top prospects heading into 2022, lauded for his excellent contact skills and raw power. There has been some question as to his long term defensive home, as he was thought to potentially be too big to handle short, leading to time at second and third as well.
While Grissom spent most of his time in the majors in 2022 at second, he has proven that he can handle short in the minors. He also showed his potential with the bat, posting a solid .291/.353/.440 batting line with five homers and six doubles in his 156 plate appearances, stealing five bases. He will find his way into the Braves’ lineup one way or another in 2023.
That performance gives the Braves hope that they have a replacement for Swanson should he head elsewhere. While they would want to bring him back if an extension can be worked out, they are not going to push their budget too far. Grissom would be a cost effective option who could provide similar production.
The Atlanta Braves are hoping to keep Dansby Swanson. If he leaves, they have their backup option on board in Vaughn Grisson.