The Braves offense has had no shortage of storylines so far this year. Whether it be questions about the lineup or roster decisions, it seems like no one is blameless for Atlanta’s slugging showing this year.
Perhaps the biggest scapegoat of all has been Nick Allen, who was acquired from the Athletics in exchange for cash considerations and immediately has been Atlanta’s starting shortstop for most of the season. And while he’s been stelar in the field, his bat has left a lot to be desired.
But could that be a thing of the past?
Against all odds, Nick Allen's bat seems to be trending upward for the Braves
Although Allen’s batting average still sits at .240 to go along with an OPS+ of 66, he’s actually been quite good over the past two weeks after his batting average bottomed out at .223 on June 18. In the 13 games since, Allen’s posted a .310/.356/.333 slash line to go along with two RBI and three walks. It’s not great, but it’s better than the .154 average he had posted his 15 games prior.
That slash line does show the limitations of Allen’s game, however. While he was able to get on-base at a solid clip, it was all singles or walks sans for one double against the Mets. It’s not a surprise his .271 slugging percentage is the third-lowest among players who have 200+ at-bats this year.
The biggest plus in his game is his glove, as he’s in the 100th percentile in Outs Above Average and has helped stabilize the Braves defense all season. In a perfect world, you’ll take his struggles on offense if it means that you get his exceptional fielding in return. But the Braves simply haven’t had enough offense this year to be able to hide Allen’s bat.
The Braves have had 11 players get 100+ at-bats this year, and Allens' one of five of them who have an OPS+ under 100, along with Ozzie Albies, Alex Verdugo, Michael Harris II and Eli White.
The Braves already solved one of those problems by designating Verdugo for assignment and recently moved Harris down in the lineup, but there’s only so much Ronald Acuña Jr. and Matt Olson can do to keep this team afloat.
Allen’s hot streak could also end up helping the Braves in a bit of an interesting way. While the Braves seemingly haven’t decided on a final decision about whether they’re going to be buyers or sellers at the trade deadline, they could have plenty of veterans to move if they decide to sell, Allen being one of them.
He’s the prototypical bench infielder who could come into a game late to provide defense and speed, and the Braves would be smart to ask around about his trade value if they decide to cut from their major league roster and make an upgrade at shot.
But regardless of what they decide, it’s clear that Allen’s strong play as of late has been a positive sign.