On several occasions, I’ve discussed Nacho Alvarez as a potential Orlando Arcia replacement. I wouldn’t say it’s something that is going to happen soon, but with each passing day, it’s becoming something the Braves might have to consider.
Orlando Arcia has essentially been an automatic out every time he steps into the box for going on two months. He does bring a lot to the table defensively, but that doesn’t matter when he’s hitting below the Mendoza Line, especially considering the Braves’ needs.
With Ronald Acuña Jr. out for the season and other guys struggling, offense has been the single biggest reason Atlanta hasn’t lived up to expectations this season. That’s where Nacho Alvarez can really be an improvement over the Braves current shortstop.
Since being promoted, Alvarez can’t stop hitting, and most notably, he’s showing off some pop in his bat. In just six games with the Stripers, he’s launched three homers, including this shot last night in the first inning.
https://twitter.com/GoStripers/status/1803206379248713957
Nacho Alvarez also smacked a double yesterday, giving him six extra bases in as many games with the Stripers.
It’s probably best the Braves give him as many reps as possible in Gwinnett before calling him up to Atlanta. It will also give them a better read on Orlando Arcia and whether he can bust out of this funk. He was an All-Star last season, is great defensively, and is on a dirt cheap contract. But Nacho Alvarez is the future of the position. If Arcia cannot show more offensively and Alvarez keeps raking in AAA, the decision will become very easy for the Braves.
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Photo: David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire
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