As we look towards the 2022 season for the Atlanta Braves, there are several players who have some uncertain futures with the team.
With everyone still basking in the glory of winning a World Series in 2021, it’s sometimes hard to pivot and realize that group of players won’t be together forever. In fact, the Atlanta Braves will have some really tough decisions on some of these guys really soon.
Whether it be the end of a contract, a drop-off in performance, injuries, or off-the-field circumstances, the Braves have several players entering 2022 with uncertain futures with the team.
Braves with Uncertain Futures — Dansby Swanson
At the top of this list is obviously shortstop Dansby Swanson. This coming up season will be his last through arbitration before hitting free agency at the prime age of 28 years old.
The fanbase is pretty split on Dansby with half loving him and never wanting him to leave and the other half thinking he’s overrated and needs to be traded now for an upgrade.
I’m more on the side of people who love Dansby and want to see him be the shortstop of the future in Atlanta. I believe he’s a winning player and think there is potential for him to improve.
But even more than that, I just don’t see a realistic upgrade available that is better than Dansby. The Braves aren’t going to sign Carlos Correa or Trevor Story this offseason, or Trea Turner next offseason — but boy I’d love it if they signed Turner.
There isn’t anyone in the system ready to step in and takes Dansby’s place. Maybe if Braden Shewmake has a breakout 2022, or if Vaugh Grissom moves quickly.
Still, that would be asking a lot for a team trying to win a championship with a rookie at the most important position on the field where you need a leader — and Dansby is certainly that.
I’m not saying Dansby is a top-10 shortstop and the Braves should pay him whatever, but they could do worse.
I do believe the Braves will try to bring him back for four years at around $12-$14 million a year. Then it will all come down to whether or not Dansby wants to stick in Atlanta or take a shot elsewhere for more money because I think he’ll get higher offers than that in free agency.
But a lot will depend on how he performs in 2022. If he reaches the level many of us think he can reach .270/.330/.450 with 20-plus home runs and double-digit stolen bases, I think he’ll have plenty of suitors, including the Braves.