2. Orlando Arcia
Arguably the most heated debate for Atlanta Braves fans during the offseason and throughout spring training was how to replace current Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson. Replacing Swanson was expected to happen in free agency or perhaps by putting Vaughn Grissom in a new position.
Instead, after a battle throughout the spring, Atlanta decided to move forward with Arcia as the starting shortstop. It was a surprising decision considering Arcia isn’t known for his ability at the plate. However, considering the clear defensive upside it makes a level of sense.
While Grissom may still earn a shot at being the starting shortstop, for now, Arcia is tasked with replacing Swanson and that comes with a level of responsibility. Go ahead and pencil Arcia in ninth in the Atlanta Braves order, but the focus here isn’t on the offensive value but playing at a consistent level in the field.
If Arcia can play at a high level until Grissom proves ready to take over and hit close to or slightly above his career .243 average, the Braves will be surprisingly solid despite making the odd decision of moving forward with Arcia.