The Atlanta Braves' surprise decision to designate former starter Orlando Arcia for assignment serves as a warning to the rest of the roster. It is a message that salary and tenure aren't going to determine your role on the team if you're not living up to expectations. While one could argue Atlanta took too long to pivot away from Arcia, the franchise didn't give the veteran many at-bats over the last weeks of the season.
Due to the emergence of surprise starter Nick Allen, there simply isn't a role Arcia is suited to fill. Yes, the utility player can line up in a myriad of positions. The problem with basing his value on this is the fact that Luke Williams can do the same while also offering a pinch-running option to put pressure on any reliever. The value of this was enough for the Braves to choose to demote Arcia over Williams. However, the utility infielder should still consider himself on notice.
Luke Williams' Roster Spot Remains Most in Question Among Braves Hitters
While Williams might offer more upside than Arcia in a bench role, there are still reasons to believe his demotion could soon happen. The problem for Williams is the complete lack of value as a pinch hitter. Already, you're carrying Stuart Fairchild, which limits the offense your bench can provide. The infielder is an even worse option who was struggling badly in Gwinnett when the Braves opted to call up the utility option.
If Atlanta is going to have a midseason chance to grab a wildcard spot or challenge for the National League East, it demands every possible improvement. This means looking to upgrade the bench, and Williams is the most likely to be moved. Unless a blockbuster deal is done, Sean Murphy or Drake Baldwin isn't going anywhere. This leaves Williams, Fairchild, and either Eli White or Alex Verdugo on Atlanta's bench.
While the team has confidence in White and Verdugo, there is a clear need to add another pinch-hitting option that could serve as potential injury depth. No question, Arcia's demotion is a wake-up call that Atlanta's current roster simply isn't getting it done.