In light of Orlando Arcia’s ongoing offensive challenges, Braves fans have already identified a potential successor. The promising shortstop of the future, Nacho Alvarez Jr., currently holds the position of Atlanta’s top-ranked position player prospect. Unfortunately, Alvarez Jr.’s promotion comes amidst distressing news received on Sunday. All-Star second baseman Ozzie Albies sustained a wrist fracture during the ninth inning of Sunday’s game against the St. Louis Cardinals. This injury is anticipated to sideline Albies for approximately eight weeks, further compounding the Braves’ list of players on the injured list this season. Notably, this will be Albies’ second stint on the injured list this season, following a foot injury sustained after being struck by a foul ball during a game against the Houston Astros in mid-April.
Braves Promote #5 Prospect After Injury To Top Star
Ozzie Albies today underwent X-rays that revealed a left wrist fracture. He is expected to miss approximately eight weeks.
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) July 21, 2024
It was not the Braves fans’ expectation for the 21-year-old to make his MLB debut in this manner. It is probable that Atlanta will assign Alvarez Jr. to second base. However, he lacks experience playing second base in the minor leagues. He has played shortstop and third base. Arcia, who has experience playing various positions on the field, has demonstrated exceptional defensive skills at shortstop this season. Therefore, it is likely that Arcia will remain at shortstop.
The #Braves are expected to bring up their No. 5 prospect Nacho Alavrez Jr. for what would be his big league debut, per @mlbbowman.
The shortstop has a 1.007 OPS in 28 Triple-A games: https://t.co/vwkKhlAJ9E pic.twitter.com/qWndQy3LDv
— MLB Pipeline (@MLBPipeline) July 21, 2024
Alvarez’s Impressive Minor League Numbers
Alvarez has demonstrated exceptional performance during his tenure in the minor leagues this season. Initially assigned to the Double-A Mississippi Braves following Spring Training, he achieved a commendable batting average of .265, an on-base percentage of .381, and a slugging percentage of .312. His remarkable on-base percentage garnered significant attention, addressing a crucial need within the Braves’ lineup. Consequently, he was swiftly promoted to Triple-A Gwinnett after participating in 48 games. At this higher level of competition, Alvarez has maintained an impressive batting average of .336, an on-base percentage of .432, and a slugging percentage of .575. Additionally, he has accumulated seven home runs, six doubles, and 24 RBIs in just 28 games. His OPS stands at an exceptional 1.007 for the Stripers over 113 plate appearances. Should Alvarez continue to perform at this level, he may secure a long-term position with the Braves, potentially eliminating the need for an additional trade during the upcoming deadline.
Hello, Nacho! Goodbye, ball!
Nacho Alvarez Jr. blasts a 407ft @SoFi home run to cut into Charlotte’s lead. pic.twitter.com/gx0BAKOLDt
— Gwinnett Stripers (@GoStripers) July 20, 2024
The Impact Alvarez Could Have On The Trade Deadline
After the unfortunate injury to Max Fried on Sunday, Alex Anthopolous already had a significant task ahead of him. His primary focus was to revamp the outfield and secure a reliable pitcher to bolster the six-man rotation. Adding another infield player was not part of his immediate trade deadline plans. However, the emergence of Alvarez presents an opportunity to mitigate this need. If Alvarez demonstrates the ability to perform effectively at the major league level, Anthopolous may only require additional depth pieces to stabilize the infield.
Main Photo Credits: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
