Atlanta Braves Make Surprise Revelation On Opening Day Shortstop

Although coming up to the majors as a shortstop, that position had slipped from his grip over the past couple of seasons since coming over to the Atlanta Braves. Now, Orlando Arcia has reclaimed his spot as a starting shortstop in the big leagues, officially getting the nod for the keystone after a series of Braves moves on Monday.

#Braves didn't want to lose any depth, which they would have if they had kept Arcia as utility -- would've lost Adrianza. Considering how many they needed to get through season at 2B in '22, they wanted to keep Adrianza (has no options) and let kids get more time at Triple A

— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) March 20, 2023

Arcia came into camp expected to be a utility option for Atlanta, as he was last season, playing mainly second base, but also sprinkling in some third and outfield. But vaunted rookie Vaughn Grissom didn't claim the job as expected, as he's been sent down to Triple-A Gwinnett for more seasoning. 

According to Braves beat writer David O'Brien, the other real concern was that the team wanted to find a way to keep Ehire Adrianza around as a utility guy, and he was out of options, so couldn't be sent down to the farm. So with Adrianza at UT, Arcia is pushed back into the starter's role.

Arcia, 28, started his career with five seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers as the starting shortstop. Upon his arrival in Atlanta in 2021, he shifted to a utility role as Dansby Swanson, of course, was entrenched at short. Last year, in 67 games, Arcia hit .244 with a .733 OPS, and an OPS+ above average, at 104. He added nine homers and 30 RBIs in just 234 plate appearances. 

Photo: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports