Atlanta Braves: 5 free agents the Braves need to consider signing
Manny Machado
The Braves were tied to Manny Machado for a while before the trade deadline in the 2018 season. Those rumors and ties will not go away once Machado becomes a free agent (in fact, oddsmakers are already making that connection).
The power that Machado provides is something that the Atlanta Braves offense could heavily benefit from. Having Manny Machado, Freddie Freeman, and Ronald Acuña provides power all over the field and the lineup.
There have been several statements made that imply Manny Machado will only play shortstop wherever he signs. He’s been a primary third baseman for his entire 7 year career and has won 2 gold gloves at third base.
The 26 year old power infielder has made his statement: he can play shortstop. But, the defensive metrics are a bit worrisome when looking at Machado’s defensive ability there.
Machado has negative defensive runs saved (DRS) at shortstop in 2018. Not only is it negative, but Machado has -13 DRS at shortstop for 2018. Many teams will be willing to pay big money for someone who can hit 30 HR’s and 100 RBI’s on a yearly basis, but the defensive liability at a position as important as shortstop is something that might make some teams think twice about signing him as a shortstop as opposed to a third baseman.
The argument FOR the Atlanta Braves signing Machado is just as strong as the argument AGAINST signing Machado.
Johan Camargo has emerged as someone who is much more than a utility player. He is an everyday third baseman capable of 3+ WAR with great defense, power, and a very bright future. Camargo has been one of the many surprises for the Braves in 2018, and Camargo earned a starting spot for 2019.
Signing Machado would likely force Camargo out of his starting 3B position, and starting Camargo is a must in my book. Camargo can play all over the field, and he even has some experience in the outfield. Camargo could transition to the outfield if Atlanta decides to sign Machado, or he could be used as a valuable piece in a trade during the offseason (which would break my heart).
Ultimately, I think the Atlanta Braves are going to let Machado go somewhere else, and allow Camargo develop into the best player he can be over the next few years.