While the Atlanta Braves might not be in dire need of a shortstop upgrade, Orlando Arcia’s performance has shown some inconsistency. Arcia, under team control for three more years at an affordable $2 million per season, had a stellar first half, making him the starting shortstop in the All-Star Game. However, his second half was less impressive and more in line with his earlier performances in Milwaukee.

 

On June 20th, Arcia was batting a remarkable .341 with an OPS approaching .900, playing like one of the National League’s best shortstops. But over his final 87 games, he managed only a .219 batting average with a .652 OPS. While his early-season performance should not be disregarded, it’s essential to consider his overall career offensive output, which has been consistently average to below average.

 

Arcia’s numbers in his two seasons with the Braves have been above average, particularly for a strong defensive shortstop, but there’s room for improvement. Unfortunately, the upcoming free agent class doesn’t offer many exciting options, and teams are usually hesitant to trade a starting shortstop. However, one name to keep an eye on in the coming months has an ironic connection to Arcia’s former team.

 

Willy Adames, currently with the Milwaukee Brewers, is entering the final year of arbitration and is likely to command a significant salary increase, especially in light of last season’s contracts. While he might not be on the same level as Trea Turner, Carlos Correa, and Xander Bogaerts, he’s comparable to Dansby Swanson when Swanson became a free agent last offseason.

 

Adames may not have a high batting average, but he consistently delivers power, hitting 24+ homers in each of the last three seasons. Offensively, he outshines Arcia and is notably superior defensively as well. Acquiring Adames would be an all-around improvement for the Braves, and the Brewers might be willing to deal him if they believe they can’t retain him long term.