The Atlanta Braves have made a rash of moves this offseason. While I won't dive into every single transaction here, I will focus on the lack of infield utility gloves the Braves have left. They have said their goodbyes to Nicky Lopez, Braden Shewmake, and Luke Williams this offseason. That leaves only Vaughn Grissom remaining as a utility glove.
We know Vaughn Grissom is not really cut out for infield defense at the Major League level, at least from what he has shown thus far. Last season, Grissom was on pace for -53 defensive runs saved over 1,200 innings at shortstop. He has posted a -9 drs pace at second base over his career, as well.
Besides, Grissom's bat has too much potential to be relegated to a utility role. The rumor is Grissom may get a shot to showcase his bat by taking over leftfield. We'll see how that plays out.
This leaves the Braves with a need to provide utility depth on the infield. Nicky Lopez's best tool was his glove and he was a tremendous defender. However, the Braves deemed his projected $4 million salary in 2024 to be too expensive for the role. Braves starters tend to play pretty much every day, barring an injury. With the DH in play in the NL the past few seasons, the bench roles have become less important.
So, what are the Braves looking for in a utility infielder? Cheap, serviceable defense. That's about it.
With that being said, here are three former Atlanta Braves that could fit the mold for a run with the 2024 club.