Braves Breakout Rookie To Compete Solely For Starting Shortstop Job This Spring

No outfield role for him.

Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker said over the weekend that Vaughn Grissom will compete solely for the starting shortstop role in spring training.

Vaughn Grissom as the Braves shortstop? Atlanta GM Alex Anthopoulos is optimistic.@DOBrienATL & @EOF34 spoke with AA on the latest episode of the "755 Is Real podcast" to see what he thinks.

Listen:
🍎 https://t.co/LUI5wGgPKt
🎥 https://t.co/q6cjWsfWsC pic.twitter.com/uyNDIEqin8

— The Athletic MLB (@TheAthleticMLB) January 11, 2023

When asked about the possibility that Grissom might see some time in the outfield, Snitker ruled out the idea, saying the team has more than enough players competing for that role already.

As a result, Grissom is the favorite to begin the 2023 season as the Braves' starting shortstop since the team has made no move to add a little pressure to his chances to win the role.

The twenty-two-year-old exploded onto the scene last year with a scorching-hot start to his major-league career, however, he cooled off down the stretch. Regardless, Grissom still finished the season slashing a very good .291/,.353/.440 line, with five home runs, 18 RBIs, five stolen bases and 24 runs scored over 41 games.

Grissom will likely bat near the bottom of the lineup, but with the potential he has, there's a good chance he moves up the order during the season.
Photo Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports