Former Atlanta Braves shortstop Orlando Arcia wasted no time finding his next landing spot after a surprise release. The veteran wasted no time making an impression on the Colorado Rockies, putting up two hits in his first appearance with the team. It was a great start for a player who was long an important piece of the Atlanta organization. As frustrating as his offensive performance might have been, there is no reason to wish the veteran anything but the best moving forward.
With this in mind, Braves fans are going to love the fact that before signing with the Rockies, Arcia turned down a deal from the New York Mets. Context is everything here, as it is important to point out that it was a minor league deal. It would allow the Mets to move on easily, while the Rockies gave Arcia a deal that promised playing time. This is a heavy factor in what the veteran ultimately decided. However, perhaps there was also a piece of the shortstop unwilling to play with a former rival.
Orlando Arcia Turned Down the New York Mets and Yankees Before Signing with the Rockies
The Mets have a bench spot Arcia would have likely filled, and would be joining a contender. New York sits firmly in the National League East race and in the wildcard picture. It was a chance to play a contributing role for a team expected to be a postseason contender. Opting to ignore the Mets in favor of the worst team in the league is a move Atlanta fans will love.
Even if the decision had zero to do with the Mets and was completely based on Arcia's wish to have firm playing time, it is a great story. One that allows Atlanta to point to yet another New York failure and enjoy their rival's inability to add a struggling bench piece.
For Arcia, the shortstop is off to a great start with the Rockies and is facing the least pressure the veteran has felt in three seasons. This had to factor in as well for the much-maligned shortstop who was overdue for offensive improvement.