Let’s talk about Christian Cairo and the ever-changing nature of MLB roster projections. The Atlanta Braves have made a number of small additions this offseason to add depth and competition in Spring Training.
You might’ve been surprised when MLB.com’s Mark Bowman initially predicted that Cairo would break camp with Atlanta as their fifth infielder.
Well, fast-forward a few weeks, and that prediction has shifted. Bowman now sees Nick Allen and Luke Williams getting the nod instead, leaving Cairo’s future with the Braves looking uncertain.
Braves Rule 5 Draft Dilemma
Cairo was taken in the Rule 5 Draft, which means if Atlanta doesn’t keep him on their big-league roster all season, they’ll have to place him on waivers before offering him back to his original team—the Cleveland Guardians—for a cool $50,000.
That’s the tricky part with Rule 5 guys. If he’s removed from the 26-man roster at any point, the Braves can’t just stash him in the minors unless he clears waivers and the Guardians decline to take him back.
Cairo’s Numbers: Enough to Stick?
Cairo has shown some promise, but his numbers don’t exactly scream “must-keep.” Between Double-A Akron and Triple-A Columbus last year, he hit .241 with a .680 OPS in Double-A and .233 with a .670 OPS in Triple-A.
Those aren’t bad numbers, but they don’t jump off the page either—especially when you’re competing for a bench spot on a team with World Series aspirations.
The Competition: Allen and Williams
Enter Nick Allen and Luke Williams. Allen’s bat has room for improvement, but his glove is solid.
Williams, who’s out of options, provides that all-important versatility as a bench player. His ability to play multiple positions could give him the edge over Cairo when final roster decisions roll around.
Losing Cairo wouldn’t be ideal, especially considering his potential, but baseball is a business. Cairo could be the odd man out if Allen and Williams give the Braves a better shot at depth and defensive reliability.
Of course, there’s always a chance he clears waivers and sticks around in the Braves’ system—but that’s a big if.
For now, all eyes are on how he performs in spring training. He may force Atlanta’s hand if he can make a strong case at the plate and in the field. But if not? Well, the Braves’ infield depth might be set without him.
