Unlike the rest of the roster, the Braves are pretty set when it comes to the infield, and any potential move in free agency will be minor. However, the reserves aren’t as set in stone. Nicky Lopez is estimated to get about $4 million in arbitration, which may be a little too rich for Atlanta’s blood. Vaughn Grissom and Braden Shewmake aren’t exactly dependable, and there aren’t many other prospects that inspire hope right now. The Braves may look for some low-cost options in case disaster strikes, especially if Lopez isn’t retained. This list will mostly feature players with upside or older guys chasing a ring. If you want to check out some free agent targets for the outfield, that’s linked below:
IF Adalberto Mondesà — Boston Red Sox
One of my favorite targets for Atlanta in this entire free agent class, Mondesà and the Braves seem like a match made in heaven. MondesÃ’s biggest issues have stemmed from injury; he just missed all of 2023. However, when he’s on the field, he’s an absolute speed demon that can play multiple positions. He makes a ton of sense for the Braves as a pinch runner and emergency infielder.
IF Kiké Hernández — Los Angeles Dodgers
One of the best utility players in baseball, Hernández can play a variety of infield positions and some outfield. He played in 140 games in 2023, but at 32 years old, he could move into a super-utility role with a contender if he doesn’t get the contract offer he’s looking for
IF Eduardo Escobar — Los Angeles Angels
Escobar isn’t the same player he was with the Mets; his days as a starter may be over. However, he’s still a switch hitter who can play every position on the infield. There’s some value there, especially with a veteran.
IF Scott Kingery — Philadelphia Phillies
This is undoubtedly the strangest entry on this list. Kingery signed a massive extension with the Phillies before ever playing a big-league game and completely flopped. The Phillies finally have an out in that deal, and they’re pretty much guaranteed to use it. Kingery is an interesting reclamation project; he had a decent season in AAA.
IF Mike Moustakas — Los Angeles Angels
The days of being an all star are over for Moustakas, but he’s a lefty batting vet who can play second, third, and first base. He should be interested in playing for a contender, even after winning a ring with the Royals in 2015.
IF Elvis Andrus — Chicago White Sox
I thought the Braves would sign Andrus last offseason, but they decided to roll with Orlando Arcia, and it paid off. Andrus would be nothing more than a veteran bat, which is what the Braves could use.
IF Gio Urshela — Los Angeles Angels
Urshela was pretty good in limited action for the Angels, almost hitting .300. Another guy who can play all over the diamond, he would be a solid fit in Atlanta.
—
Photographer: Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire
You must log in to post a comment.