With the MLB trade deadline fast approaching, the Braves are set to dominate headlines as they look to fill clear and obvious gaps in their roster to fuel their World Series aspirations.
At a glance, Alex Anthopoulos might seek cost-effective and impactful outfield acquisitions, an area typically abundant in supply at the deadline.
However, with Michael Harris II expected to return, the Braves might benefit more from using their resources to upgrade other areas, particularly shortstop.
As Chase ranted, the Braves must replace Orlando Arcia before the trade deadline. Arcia has struggled significantly, becoming one of the worst hitters in baseball over the past two months. Additionally, his defense has regressed considerably.
Arcia is the only qualified hitter with an on-base percentage below .250 this season, largely due to a two-month slump where he’s hitting .166 with a wRC+ of 32 (68% below league average).
It’s time to replace him, but the shortstop market may not be as robust as the outfield market. While Nacho Alvarez is an internal candidate, relying on a 21-year-old with minimal experience at the Gwinnett level may not be wise.
One league insider believes the solution will come via trade, suggesting the acquisition of an All-Star. ESPN pundit David Schoenfield believes the Braves should trade for Bo Bichette.
“Arcia has regressed in a big way, hitting .211 with a .245 OBP. He does provide good defense, but Bichette could be an impact player for 2024 and 2025.”
Bo Bichette is a player Chase has frequently mentioned in recent weeks, and it makes sense for Anthopoulos to inquire about the former All-Star, despite his current down year.
Bichette’s career OPS is above .800, though he currently has a .619 OPS with a .231 average and four home runs. However, he is likely to experience positive regression. Bichette is a proven hitter, accumulating 14.4 WAR over three seasons from 2021 to 2023 and securing three top-16 finishes in the AL MVP race during that period.
He’s also under contract through the 2025 season, giving the Braves additional time to develop Nacho Alvarez as the long-term solution at shortstop. A change of scenery could be beneficial for Bichette, and the Braves have a history of helping struggling players find success in Atlanta.
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