Even though the offseason has only just gotten started, the case for and against the Atlanta Braves pursuing Bo Bichette this offseason has already been dissected to death.

On one hand, there is no denying that Bichette is one of the better free agents on the market period and that his bat could be a game changer. However, Bichette’s defense at short is really problematic and he is also going to require a very hefty contract to lure to Atlanta (or anywhere else). There is also the potential hang-up that Bichette now has the qualifying offer attached to him as an added penalty to signing him.

However, there is a potential wrinkle involving Ozzie Albies that could convince the Braves to make a push for Bichette despite his flaws.

The Braves ended some speculation when they exercised Albies option, but it does feel like this is his last chance to secure his long-term future with Atlanta.

After next season, Albies has just one club option year left on his contract and the odds that the Braves will bring him back if he has another down year filled with injuries are slim to none.

However, one potential Albies exit strategy could be to sign Bichette to play short in 2026, live with his defensive shortcomings, and then slide him over to second base once Albies’ time is over.

Perhaps the Braves should view Bo Bichette as a long-term Ozzie Albies replacement

Look, Albies has been a fan favorite since he was called up and has been a part of some huge moments for the Braves over the years. Nothing here changes that.

However, the poor guy just can’t seem to stay healthy and when he is on the field, Albies has often looked like a guy whose body has been through the wringer. There are real reasons why there was speculation would exercise his 2026 option as well as whether or not the Braves could entertain trading him.

If the Braves plan on trading Albies this offseason, this idea actually makes less sense as that would mean they still would need an up-the-middle infielder.

Now, if Atlanta wanted to sign Bichette AND bring back Ha-Seong Kim…well, that changes the calculus considerably. That said, that would be a rather expensive option to entertain.

Of course, this plan would mean that the Braves would have to do this shortstop search all over again next offseason while having to navigate around CBA negotiations and a likely work stoppage.

It doesn’t help that next offseason’s shortstop free agent class looks even worse than this current crop. However, there is a nonzero chance that Alex Anthopoulos could look at the current roster and market landscape and land on adding Bichette being the best option to sustain Atlanta’s success long-term.