Atlanta went into the 2023 season needing to address the need at shortstop after the departure of Dansby Swanson. Many fans believed that this would have been Vaughn Grissom‘s opportunity to secure the starting job. However, the Braves’ front office went in a different direction. GM Alex Anthopoulos had concerns about Grissom’s defense and decided to go with infielder Orlando Arcia as the Opening Day starter. Arcia has held down the shortstop job since then and even signed a three-year, $7.3 million extension. However, since the All-Star break last season, Arcia has statistically been one of the worst hitters in all of baseball. The only bright side to Arcia this season is his glove, as he ranks in the 95th percentile in OAA. This is where the Braves are hopeful with Alvarez, as he has shown signs of productive offense so far in the minors.
In his minor league career, he has maintained a very impressive .400 OBP with a .772 OPS and .280 BA. Manager Brian Snitker was quoted as saying, “Everybody who was with him last year said he can really hit. He might look like a catcher when he’s out there playing short, but he makes the plays. Everything I’ve seen with his bat and glove has been really impressive.” With Grissom being traded this past off-season for pitcher Chris Sale, the question seems to have arisen again about shortstop. If Orlando Arcia continues his offensive struggles, the Braves will be forced to go with an offensive player, and Alvarez seems to be that player.
