The Atlanta Braves have shuffled through a number of infield options over the past two seasons, with injuries never slowing. At different points in the last two years, Ozzie Albies, Orlando Arcia, Sean Murphy, and Austin Riley have had to be replaced. This has especially been the case for Riley, who cannot seem to stay on the field with any level of consistency. The veteran third baseman was injured at the end of the 2024 season as well, causing the team to add Gio Urshela.
The veteran infielder had positive results in Atlanta, hitting .265 and driving in 15 runs and adding 5 homers in his stint as a starter. Urshela still didn't have a home with the Braves, with Riley expected back to begin the season. It didn't make sense to add the veteran to the bench, and Urshela found a new landing spot, signing with the Athletics.
A decision that hasn't aged well, with the veteran being designated for assignment after another failed season. Urshela has had a long history of being just good enough to earn another chance, but cannot lock down a starting role.
Former Braves Infielder Gio Urshela Hits Yet Another Setback
Aside from the Braves, the veteran has spent time with the Yankees, Twins, Angels, Athletics, Guardians, Blue Jays, and Tigers. The long list speaks to the inability to live up to early promise and provide any level of consistent offensive production. For the Braves, a reunion still wouldn't be the worst idea for the final month of the season.
Riley has been hurt yet again, and Atlanta's infield is in a sorry state. Opting to bring in Urshela as additional depth isn't a bad move for the struggling franchise. Expectations will be incredibly low with the Braves limping to the finish. If Atlanta has no interest, it is difficult to see a landing spot for the underwhelming infielder.
Few teams have both a poor enough record and a clear infield opening to consider the signing. With this in mind, Urshela should consider a reunion with Atlanta for the final month of the season.