Evaluating the Atlanta Braves Current Outfield Options

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - MAY 19: Ronald Acuna Jr. #13 of the Atlanta Braves reacts after hitting a walk-off homer in the ninth inning against the New York Mets at Truist Park on May 19, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - MAY 19: Ronald Acuna Jr. #13 of the Atlanta Braves reacts after hitting a walk-off homer in the ninth inning against the New York Mets at Truist Park on May 19, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
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Atlanta Braves Austin Riley
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – MAY 21: Austin Riley #27 of the Atlanta Brave. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

What should the Braves do?

The Braves do not really have a great option with the four guys they currently have. They have to piece it together until a better solution internally (Pache or Waters) presents itself or until trade season comes around.

Hopefully, Almonte can swing a magic wand for a few weeks and lengthen the lineup. Playing Almonte next to Heredia/Inciarte and Acuña is not ideal but is probably one of the better options the Braves have at the moment.

There is also another option to consider. Moving Austin Riley to left field if another third base option presents itself.

If Orlando Arcia can be serviceable at third base, then moving Riley to left could benefit the Braves for this season.

For his career, Riley has been better defensively in left field than at third. His career 1 DRS in left field is a lot better than his -10 DRS at third for his career. He probably would not win a gold glove in left, but he could provide the Braves with a longer lineup with this versatility.

It would also open up the possibility of the Braves looking at third base options along with outfielders at the deadline. That is, if the Braves find themselves in a position to be buyers.

Before anyone says this would be a bad move for Riley, being versatile and playing multiple positions should not be discouraged. Kris Bryant is having an MVP season and has played significant innings at five different positions.

Riley can always move back to third as needed, but moving him to the outfield should at least be considered.

The Braves are going to have to figure out their outfield situation though if they are going to make a serious run this year. Whether that means Waters or Pache steps up, Riley moves to the outfield in the short run, or they acquire a solid bat at the deadline.

A move is going to be needed. Hopefully, the four guys currently being used to fill the holes can provide the offense with quality innings in the meanwhile while the Braves figure it out.

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