Orlando Arcia’s lack of offensive productivity has prompted the Atlanta Braves to consider infield options for the upcoming season and beyond. In 2024, Arcia hit just.218 with a.625 OPS as the Braves’ primary shortstop. A team like the Braves, which wants to compete with the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League, needs a more productive batter. The potential to sign an infielder to replace Arcia is dwindling, but the Braves still have one free agency alternative to help strengthen the team. Jorge Polanco is coming off one of his worst offensive seasons, but there are reasons to believe he can rebound.
Despite hitting only.213 in 2024 with the Seattle Mariners, Polanco has a career.262 batting average and an OPS+ of 109 (100 is average). Hitting is contagious, and the Mariners struggled as a team in that regard last season. Polanco joining the Braves would allow him to complete a mental reset. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated his
ability to hit at a high level. Bringing him in would help the organization to feel better about the shortstop position, despite his terrible performance last season. He is expected to sign a four-year, $54.7-million contract. However, his bad performance in 2024 may allow the Braves to contract him for less. If batting coach Tim Hyers can help Polanco return to his
It would result in a more balanced team capable of contending in the National League East.
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