The last three seasons, the Atlanta Braves have had no shortage of fringe roster pieces forced into starting roles. Endless injuries have plagued every piece of the roster, leading to consistent fan frustration and this year's ugly results. However, the one upside of this is giving fans a number of pieces to pay attention to, with one notable Brave finding a new landing spot.
Former Atlanta infielder Nicky Lopez landed with the Chicago Cubs on a minor league deal to provide additional depth. Lopez spent the 2023 season with the Braves before spending time with the White Sox, Angels, and Cubs. While being a very reliable defender, the offense is a consistent liability, making the potential upside of adding Lopez frustratingly limited.
Still, there is value in having the speed and defense on the bench for the right team. Chicago makes sense in that it provides a sense of security if injuries were to strike. The Cubs currently hold the first wildcard spot, sitting 17 games over .500. While this would typically be good enough to lead a division, the Brewers' incredible run has put Chicago into a shocking 6.5 game hole as we near the season's final weeks.
Former Braves Infielder Nicky Lopez Finds Surprise Landing Spot
For Atlanta, it is at least a familiar face fans can cheer for if the veteran makes the roster. The Braves are far from playing games of meaning, only having the ability to play spoiler and attempt to get healthy for the 2026 season. This is how far the franchise has fallen after being an expected World Series contender.
Atlanta's implosion isn't just due to injuries, but a lack of front office awareness and what appears to be increasingly cheap ownership. Regardless, Lopez isn't a piece that would've been brought back even if the front office made needed moves. With this in mind, Chicago is the best possible landing spot for the veteran.
It allows Lopez a low pressure chance to contribute to a postseason team. The veteran has rarely been a factor at this point in the season, leaving all the more reason to pull for the former Brave to have a defining moment in the Cubs' postseason chase.