2. Orlando Arcia
Running it back with Arcia as your 2025 starting shortstop is the type of decision that makes you question how serious this team is about World Series contention. Arcia was a great option at the start of the 2023 season after the loss of Dansby Swanson. The career utility player blew expectations out of the water and became a surprise contributor to Atlanta's dominating 2023 offense.
However, Arcia's production faded down the stretch of the season ending with an awful postseason performance. This would bleed over into the 2024 season with Arcia taking a huge step back at the plate. All of Arcia's numbers trended in the wrong direction and Atlanta was left with a huge question mark at the position.
Opting not to make a single signing of note at shortstop was a surprising offseason choice. One that leaves Arcia as a clear liability on the biggest stage.
3. Bryan De La Cruz
The Braves are going to be forced to turn to Cruz or Jarred Kelenic as a starting option for the first weeks of the season. Ronald Acuna Jr. is going to be eased back into the Atlanta lineup, testing the Braves outfield depth early in the season. Kelenic cannot be relied on when you look at the lack of production when the Braves needed him most last season.
Atlanta is likely going to enter the season with a platoon, with Cruz being handed the heavier workload. Based on the outfielder's spring performance, he is the most deserving of a start.
With this in mind, the Braves are going to be relying on Cruz as a starter despite his recent struggles. Both in the previous two seasons with the Marlins and his short stint with the Pirates, the offensive production slid in the wrong direction. However, an easy counter to this would be the overall lack of offensive talent at both landing spots. The veteran has never played in a lineup with as much protection and talent as Atlanta will offer.