The Atlanta Braves had a surprisingly tough season in 2024, leaving them with clear areas in need of improvement. One of the biggest gaps in their lineup is at shortstop.
Orlando Arcia, the Braves’ 30-year-old shortstop, struggled last season, posting a .218/.271/.354 slash line with 17 home runs and 46 RBIs. He barely exceeded 0.0 WAR and provided the team with below-average offensive production.
While finding a young, high-upside shortstop might not be realistic, the Braves could pursue an affordable veteran replacement in free agency. Enter New York Mets shortstop José Iglesias.
In 2024, Iglesias was impressive, hitting .337/.381/.448 with 16 doubles over 85 games. Despite playing just half the season, he amassed 3.1 WAR for the Mets. At 35 years old by Opening Day 2025, Iglesias would likely come at a reasonable price, possibly signing a one- or two-year deal with an annual salary in the $5–10 million range.
The Braves face a choice: gamble on Arcia improving in 2025 or make a savvy move to poach a key contributor from the Mets’ 2024 postseason roster. The opportunity is clear—now it’s up to Atlanta to turn it into reality.
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