6. Orlando Arcia
The biggest surprise of Atlanta's 2025 offseason was failing to add to the shortstop position. What more does the team need to see to understand Arcia isn't a viable starting option? Yes, when the Atlanta lineup is fully healthy you can hide Arcia's bat at the bottom of the lineup. It has been two seasons since this strategy worked at all and it ended with the shortstop's infamous interactions with Philly star Bryce Harper. Atlanta understands the urgency at the position and is going to have far less patience if Arcia isn't getting the job done.
The shortstop collapsed at the end of the 2023 season and spent the majority of last year as a liability at the plate. If he is unable to turn back the clock and put together competitive ABs, it wouldn't be at all surprising to see the team send Arcia to the bench. You simply cannot be a serious playoff contender and give away outs as Arcia has done much of the last two seasons.
7. Jarred Kelenic
Kelenic being handed a second chance was another surprising development of the Atlanta offseason. After a hot start a season ago, the outfielder became unplayable and lost all of his confidence at the plate. It was believed the Braves would attempt to trade the outfielder and look to free agency to fill the role.
That proved to be the case with the team's signing of Jurickson Profar. Atlanta's starting outfield is expected to consist of Profar, Michael Harris, and Ronald Acuna Jr. once the star outfielder is healthy. Until that time, the Braves are holding a tryout for the fourth outfielder spot. Bryan De La Cruz and Kelence are competing for the same spot with the loser likely exiting the franchise altogether.