REPORT: Braves Considering Signing Recently-Released SS Adeiny Hechavarria
By Parker White
The Atlanta Braves are still a highly competitive team, but with the loss of shortstop Dansby Swanson and a dearth of knowledge about when he'll be ready to come back from a bruised heel, it might be time for GM Alex Anthopoulos to make a move.
According to Jon Heyman of MLB Network, the Braves are considering doing just that, playing with signing veteran shortstop Adeiny Hechavarria.
Braves are considering signing free agent ss Adeiny Hechavarria. Makes sense to shore things up defensively with Swanson still out.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) August 16, 2019
Hechavarria began the 2019 season with the New York Mets, but was recently designated for assignment after they picked up second baseman Joe Panik from the San Francisco Giants.
The 30-year-old's offense has never come around, as he's slashing .204/.252/.359 with five home runs this season, but the dude can pick it at shortstop.
#Braves defense has taken a noticeable step back at the shortstop position with Swanson sidelined. Hechavarria would be an upgrade there, but offers little at the plate. https://t.co/N0oux5OiH4
— Grant McAuley (@grantmcauley) August 16, 2019
Teams are always looking for offense, but with the Braves being one of the best units in the sport, they can afford to play someone like Hechavarria, who is a defense-only player, especially with the rough play from Johan Camargo on both sides of the ball.
As a temporary stopgap until Swanson gets back, signing Hechavarria makes all the sense in the world for Atlanta.