The Atlanta Braves, once rumored to be pursuing Milwaukee Brewers free agent shortstop Willy Adames, missed out as Adames signed a nearly $200 million deal with the San Francisco Giants. Now, the Braves must look for alternatives to address the shortstop position, especially with Orlando Arcia’s performance issues reaching a low in 2024. While no perfect option exists, the Braves might need to think creatively.
Christopher Kline of FanSided proposed an unconventional idea: targeting Houston Astros free agent Alex Bregman. Spotrac estimates Bregman could land a four-year, $119 million contract, though some believe the final figure might approach $200 million. “While it’s unlikely to happen, Alex Bregman could be a prime target for the Braves,” Kline wrote. “His price tag may rival or surpass Adames’ $182 million, so caution is advised. However, Bregman’s two World Series titles and nearly a decade of postseason experience make him an intriguing option for an Atlanta team aiming for championship glory.”
One complication is Bregman’s primary position. Though not a shortstop, he is reportedly open to switching roles if needed. In Atlanta, he could play second base while Ozzie Albies transitions to shortstop. However, committing $200 million to a 30-year-old player might not be prudent for the Braves, particularly with competition from aggressive suitors like the Astros, New York Yankees, Detroit Tigers, and New York Mets.
