Atlanta Braves: Free Agent Options to Fill Out the Bench

The Braves need some more insurances on the infield 

I think it’s very important to have a back-up shortstop that can handle the position well defensively. We saw how difficult that was when Dansby Swanson got hurt a couple of years ago.

Adeiny Hechavarría came in and was great locking up the position defensively and also gave us a little on offense too.

That’s the type of guy I’d be looking for on the bench, but unfortunately, I don’t really see anyone like that available in free agency.

Maybe Adrianza is that guy as shortstop is where he’s played the most at the big leagues, but he’s not nearly as great defensively as Hech or even Dansby.

Jonathan Villar is someone I’d be interested in, but he might cost too much for a bench piece. He’s a switch-hitter that can hit, and he can play pretty much anywhere on the field.

If you’re just looking for more power off the bench and someone that can cover the corner infield spots, then I think Jedd Gyorko would be a good option.

Renato Nunez was let go by the money-strapped Baltimore Orioles and would be a solid option. He hit 31 home runs in 2019. But like with Mazara, he’s young enough that he’s probably looking for a place he can start.

If you’re just looking for someone who can come off the bench and spark some energy, then Derek Dietrich is out there as well. He’s a definite power threat from the left side who can play first, second, third, and even some outfield if you need him to.