The Atlanta Braves face an offseason conundrum as they evaluate their infield options, with Orlando Arcia’s 2024 performance leaving much to be desired. After a monster first half to the 2023 season when he became an All-Star, his bat completely fell off.
Arcia’s Struggles Highlight Braves’ Need for an Upgrade
This downward trend ran all the way through the 2024 season, proving the Braves need an upgrade at his position. Although his fielding was solid, the Braves need a guy who can get on base more and perform in clutch moments.
Slashing just .218 with a .625 OPS, Arcia’s offensive production fell short of what a perennial contender like Atlanta needs, especially when their sights are set on competing with powerhouses like the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Jorge Polanco: A Bounce-Back Candidate
The Braves aren’t short on ambition, but their window to bolster the roster is closing. Jorge Polanco is a potential free-agent solution with the pedigree to turn things around, even after a challenging season of his own.
While Polanco’s 2024 numbers with the Seattle Mariners—hitting just .213—are far from inspiring, his career tells a different story. With a lifetime batting average of .262 and a 109 OPS+ that signals above-average production, Polanco might just be the reset Atlanta needs at shortstop.
What’s particularly intriguing about Polanco is his track record. Players of his caliber don’t forget how to hit overnight. His struggles last year mirrored Seattle’s overall offensive woes.
That could mean his poor showing was more a symptom of the Mariners’ issues than his own decline. A change of scenery and the chance to join Atlanta’s dynamic lineup could be what Polanco needs to return to form.
A Smart Gamble for Atlanta’s Future
Financially, the timing might favor the Braves. Polanco’s projected four-year, $54.7 million contract might shrink given his down year, potentially giving Atlanta the opportunity to snag a bargain.
With hitting coach Tim Hyers on hand to reignite Polanco’s bat, the Braves could turn a gamble into a jackpot.
Adding Polanco wouldn’t just address the offensive gap at shortstop—it would strengthen the team’s overall lineup, helping the Braves stay competitive in the NL East and beyond.
While nothing is guaranteed in baseball, Polanco’s potential upside makes him a gamble worth considering as Atlanta eyes its next move.
