While it might be at the top of every fan’s wishlist, the Braves might not feel the same way about upgrading Orlando Arcia.
Was he good last offseason? Absolutely not, but context does matter. Arcia’s $2 million price tag is incredibly attractive, especially considering all of the other holes — outfield, rotation, and bullpen — that need to be filled this offseason.
Moreover, the market dictates a lot of what Alex Anthopoulos can do, and it’s not robust with options. The only desirable free agent is Willy Adames, and every club with a need for a shortstop will be in the running. His willingness to move off of shortstop brings even more potential suitors.
But how about an international free agent? Kiwoom Heroes of the Korea Baseball Organization will soon post infielder Hyeseong Kim, and the Braves make a ton of sense.
Unlike Roki Sasaki, Kim can sign a major league deal of any length and for any amount, so Atlanta will surely have competition. He’s a left-handed batter, which is something Alex Anthopoulos has been looking for this offseason to add to Atlanta’s righty-heavy lineup.
He’s coming off four straight seasons batting over .300 with an on-base percentage of at least .372. He doesn’t have a ton of power but did launch a career-high 11 home runs, to go along with 26 doubles and four triples. It’s the perfect change of pace for a Braves offense that lives and dies on the long ball.
He’s developed into a KBO star because of his contact bat and defense, all of which should be pique the interest of the Braves. Additionally, he’s a demon on the base paths, another thing the Braves have been missing. Over the past four seasons, he’s swiped 135 bases in 155 attempts.
Overall, Kim carries a .321/.381/.418 slash line over the past four seasons, including a .326/.383/.458 batting line this past season. A plus defender, Kim can play shortstop and could present the Braves an option to upgrade over Orlando Arcia.
—
Larry Radloff/Icon Sportswire
You must log in to post a comment.