No matter what changes you think need to be made, everyone can agree that the Atlanta Braves have to make some significant changes this offseason if they want to get back into contention. They have some good core pieces in place, but relying solely on them to carry the team clearly doesn't work and they also need multiple rotation arms and probably have to replace half the bullpen. However, one need that continues to stick out like a sore thumb is at shortstop.
Aside from one good season from Orlando Arcia, the Braves have struggled at short since Dansby Swanson left for the Cubs in free agency. While his defense has been very good, no one realistically thinks Nick Allen and his toothpick bat should be Atlanta's shortstop beyond the end of this season.
Without great internal options or at least ones that will be ready anytime soon, that leaves an offseason trade or free agent signing to address shortstop before the 2026 season. Unsurprisingly, the experts have already noticed that the Braves could use a new shortstop which is exactly why MLB insider Mark Feinsand named Atlanta as a good fit for pending free agent Bo Bichette.
Bo Bichette remains a favorite free agent option for the Braves among experts
While picking the best shortstop on the market as a fit for a team that wants to contend and who desperately needs a shortstop lack imagination, there are certainly some pros in the Braves doing so. Bichette's defense would be a notable step down from what Allen has provided, adding a guy to the Braves' lineup who has hit .290 or better every year of his career except for his odd down season in 2024 would definitely be nice.
There are some issues with this idea. Bichette's defense is not great and he isn't adept at drawing walks. Bichette also promises to be very expensive in free agency which should give Atlanta some pause given the sheer scale of the roster changes they need to make. Atlanta also is going to have to compete with not only the Blue Jays who would prefer to keep him, but also potentially the Tigers and any other team that could use a shortstop upgrade and who have some cash to spend.
Until Bichette signs, you can fully expect the Braves to be connected to him in the coming weeks and months. It may make more sense to swing a trade for a guy like Jordan Lawlar instead, but it is at least a little tempting to make a play for Bichette in hopes that he can ascend to stardom in Atlanta like so many thought he would in Toronto.