2. AJ Smith-Shawver
If Elder has any hope of staying in Atlanta's rotation, it is due to the team not wanting to damage the confidence of Smith-Shawver. Already the Braves have put Smith-Shawver in bad postseason spots and perhaps hurt the starter's confidence. Now, they have elevated the pitcher based on a strong spring that is yet to yield positive regular-season results. Yes, the Braves haven't given run support, but Smith-Shawver has put the team far behind before they get past the early innings.
There is so much to love about the starter's ability and what it could look like down the road. Still, there is no denying that the rough patches are difficult to watch. One moment, the starter appears to have command of the game and is unhittable. The very next batter, things will suddenly turn with multiple runs scoring before the starter can adjust. A big piece of this is simply due to being a young starter who is learning at the big-league level.
On the flip side, your team is an incredibly deep hole early on and can't afford to give away games. Learning at the big-league level might not be an option if the Braves are serious about becoming the first 0-7 team to make the postseason.
3. Orlando Arcia
It seems that Arcia's poor spring at-bats did play a role in the team's early decision-making this season. Nick Allen started back-to-back games and appears to be the early favorite at the position. Arcia will be aided by the fact that Allen's last game was a forgettable performance at the plate that included two key strikeouts from Allen. It isn't clear who the starter is moving forward, what is unquestionable is that Arcia is quickly falling out of favor in Atlanta.
Considering the awful 2024 offensive production from Arcia and the higher defensive upside of Allen, this isn't a big surprise. Expect Arcia to continue to get chances to win back his job, however, it is clear a message has been sent.
One that has even more meaning with the added context of Atlanta's frustrating start to the season. The Braves must do everything possible to steal wins and that includes putting Arcia on the bench if it is what is best for Atlanta.