Atlanta Braves Shorstop Dansby Swanson Must Take a Step Forward Offensively

Dansby Swanson will be facing pressure this season, the Atlanta Braves shortstop needs to take a step forward at the plate. Becoming more consistent with his production if he wants to keep starting for Atlanta.

The Atlanta Braves will head into the season with Dansby Swanson as their opening day shortstop. Though he may face more pressure at the plate considering he will share playing time with Johan Camargo.

Camargo is coming off of a fantastic season, while Swanson still struggled at the plate. Dansby hit .238 playing fantastic defense and coming up with clutch hits.

While his production was better than his average would indicate he still must find a way to be more productive.

If not it seems likely Johan Camargo could earn more playing time considering he is the better hitter.  Swanson must continue to play gold glove level defense and increase his production at the plate.

Hitting .250 or better would be the goal for Swanson, one he is more than capable of if he can be consistently disciplined in his at-bats.

Chasing balls out of the zone was a problem for the young shortstop and an area he must improve this season. He offers limited power and speed, though he is more of a hustle player than a true stealing threat.

Camargo is coming off of a season where he hit 19-homers and drove in 76-runs in an injury-shortened season. The Braves will attempt to work his bat into the lineup consistently.  This may come at Swanson’s expense if the young shortstop doesn’t take a step forward at the plate.

Shortstop is a position Camargo can play well, though not at as high of a level as Swanson.  It wouldn’t be surprising to see Swanson used as a defensive replacement often in late game situations if he doesn’t start.

Regardless, Swanson must show growth this season at the plate. Offering a better average and showing he can be a consistent hitter at the Major League level.