Former Atlanta Braves starting shortstop Orlando Arcia is now a free agent after the team opted to release the veteran to make room for Ronald Acuña Jr. to join the active roster. It ended a frustrating tenure for Arcia when things had started with such promise. Arcia first joined the Atlanta roster as a utility option before taking over the starting shortstop role after the departure of franchise star Dansby Swanson. Things got off to an incredible start with Arcia raking and earning an All-Star nod for the 2023 season.
However, the wheels would fall off down the stretch of the season, and the veteran's offensive performance simply never recovered. This led to the surprise emergence of Nick Allen, who simply became a superior option in every way. Leading to Arcia's release and an unexpected job search. One surprise option could be as a part of a contender in the American League East. The New York Yankees are searching for a right-handed option in the infield.
Former Braves Shortstop Orlando Arcia Could Find the Perfect Landing Spot in New York
The Yankees could use a flexible infielder to offer the bench a right-handed option either as a defensive replacement or pinch-hitting replacement. With this in mind, Arcia could quickly get a shot at redemption with another contender. The Yankees' loaded lineup has been solid, with the need for bench depth one of the few holes on an impressive roster.
It would be the exact type of role Arcia thrived in when first joining the Atlanta roster. A lot of the struggles the shortstop endured are due to the organization asking too much of the veteran. Arcia joined the roster as a utility option and thrived in this role.
Asking the hitter to replace Dansby Swanson was always a move that was doomed to fail. Things flaming out as they did were a predictable turn for a player who simply is best suited for a utility role. With this in mind, the Yankees should offer the veteran a chance to put his career back on track for a team that could become the perfect fit for the former Atlanta shortstop.