Atlanta Braves Mailbag: Fans ask about Mitch Haniger and Adeiny Hechavarría

This week’s Tomahawk Take mailbag answers questions about the Atlanta Braves options in the outfield and backing up at shortstop.

When Dansby Swanson went down with an injury at the end of July, Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker plugged Johan Camargo into the lineup. Over the next 27 days, Camargo batted .164/.250/.262/.512.

That prompted the Braves to send Camargo down and sign Adeiny Hechavarría. In a similar sample size, Hechavarria batted .328.400/.639/1.039 and earned a postseason job.

Last week the Atlanta Braves brought back Charlie Culberson on a minor league deal. At this point, that’s a depth move. Culberson’s not an everyday player at any position. Thus the Braves are still looking for that defense-minded shortstop, Alex Anthopoulos discussed in interviews ($), and the piano man wanted to know about an old friend.

Wanted: defensive-minded shortstop

Hechavarria made a lasting impression on Atlanta Braves fans with slick glovework and a show of the power that made him a top prospect a few years back.   I suspect Hechavarria remains near the top of the Braves list, and they’ve said they stayed in touch with him since the season ended.

However, adding that type of player is something done after the heavy lifting of roster-building is complete. Hechavarría will want time to try to find a full-time job somewhere, and we’ve seen that the Orioles – for one – are interested in giving him that role. They had an interest in Jose Peraza before he landed in Boston, so it seems reasonable to believe they still do.

Hechavarria offers a better bat than other free-agent, backup shortstops, but there are others available who can provide the kind of glove-first defense, the GM described.

Jose Iglesias posted a  .288/.318/.407/.725 line for the Reds last year and some defensive plays that remind me of a former Braves SS.

Has hit a few long balls too.

Former Marlin JT Riddle plays shortstop well and is capable inCF too, while also showing occasional power.

Who the Braves sign depends on timing and other roster moves the Braves make before that signing.