The biggest remaining question for the Atlanta Braves is what the future looks like at shortstop. Yes, the team does have remaining concerns in the rotation and bullpen, but it has an intriguing combination of possible answers. Without any obvious answers in the infield, it appears the Braves will move into the 2025 season with Orlando Arcia as the primary starting option.
Despite Arcia's consistent struggles, this does appear to be the correct decision at this point. Atlanta needs to be ready to make a move ahead of the trade deadline if Arcia's struggles continue. One possible answer the team could try is the surprise spring standout, Nick Allen.
Allen was an afterthought of an addition acquired in a trade with the Athletics. Allen was ranked as high as sixth overall in the A's system as recently as the 2021 season. The shortstop's inability to produce at the plate made his elite defense easy to move on from.
Nick Allen Offers More Upside Than Incumbent Starter Orlando Arcia
Arcia has put together a far more consistent career at the plate despite his recent struggles. Atlanta can rely on a certain amount of production from Arcia if the rest of their lineup is clicking. However, this doesn't make it easy to move on from Allen, who still could become a surprise contributor. This isn't to suggest the Braves start Allen on Opening Day or that Allen is the answer long-term.
Rather, it is pointing out the reality that a very strong spring at the plate, in tandem with Allen's elite defense, is far too much evidence to ignore. The shortstop should be given a chance to make the roster and perhaps a start or two early in the season.
The exact idea that has Arcia in the Atlanta lineup could become a role that Allen would thrive in. Arcia is simply expected to be at the bottom of Atlanta's lineup and be the offensive afterthought while providing consistent defense.
Nick Allen is the superior defender and has shown surprising growth at the plate through a handful of spring at-bats. The great defense, along with an already loaded lineup, is more than enough reason for Allen to become a surprise inclusion on Atlanta's roster. Perhaps it will serve as motivation for an Arcia resurgence, or Atlanta will find a way to fix Allen's offensive issues. No matter the reasoning, there is no denying Allen is making a compelling case to be on the Braves' Opening Day roster.