As we close in on Opening Day, there are a handful of remaining concerns facing the Atlanta Braves. One of the biggest is an obvious lack of proven bench depth. This roster isn't built to sustain injuries or key players missing extended time. While trades can always change this, there is one possible answer already sitting in free agency. Veteran infielder Brandon Drury has been released by the White Sox in the final week of spring training.
Drury has had an up-and-down career at the plate but has found ways to be consistently valuable. The infielder makes Atlanta's bench far deeper and offers an experienced option if injuries were to strike. Drury has played second base, third base, shortstop, left field, right field, and first base, and even made a surprise pitching appearance.
Brandon Drury's All-Around Play Gives Atlanta a Chance to Upgrade Their Bench
Drury is a career .245 hitter that remains a mystery at the plate. His 2023 season saw the infielder hit 26 homers and drive in 83 runs for an extremely limited Angels offense. Drury followed this up by hitting .169 and being a consistent liability at the plate. What you're going to get from the veteran at the plate is a gamble that has gone in extreme directions throughout his career.
However, why the Braves should make the move is the lack of risk. You're bringing in a veteran who has a chance to greatly improve your bench and can play in a myriad of positions. With the injury concerns in the outfield and the inconsistent play of Orlando Arcia, it could be a great fallback option. The one downside to this potential move is what it means for Atlanta spring standout Nick Allen.
The infielder has had an incredible spring and has more than earned a roster spot and a chance at a bench job. Could the Braves consider carrying both Allen and Drury? This seems unlikely with the team's current outfield construction and the need to carry Chadwick Tromp until Sean Murphy is healthy. Deciding Allen's future is a difficult piece of this puzzle, but there is no denying Drury makes your team better and gives the bench a far higher ceiling. It is a move the team should at least consider as we approach Opening Day.