The Atlanta Braves are rumored to be looking for a new shortstop this winter. Orlando Arcia landed on the All-Star team in 2023, but struggled tremendously in 2024. It’s time Atlanta moved on from the veteran infielder in favor of a younger talent.
One option Atlanta could explore is the San Francisco Giants’ former top prospect Marco Luciano. Luciano is still just 23 years old as he searches for his spot in the big leagues.
R.J. Anderson of CBS Sports recently predicted the Giants to move on from Luciano after acquiring Willy Adames to play shortstop. There just doesn’t seem to be room for the young infielder to get consistent playing time with the Giants.
“Indeed, San Francisco has made long-term commitments at third base (Matt Chapman) and shortstop (Willy Adames) since last summer,” Anderson wrote. “That leaves Luciano with two possible destinations: another part of the diamond, or another organization entirely.
“Seeing as how Luciano still has some marketable attributes — he’s young (23) and he possesses undeniable strength and feel for the strike zone — I could see the Giants moving him in exchange for a player with a more clear fit on their roster.”
Luciano may not be looked at as an upgrade from Arcia right now, but it would help the Braves get younger. Atlanta could even look to flip Arcia elsewhere alongside this kind of move.
It would allow Luciano to compete with Nacho Alvarez Jr. as the shortstop of Atlanta’s future. If it’s affordable, this is a trade the Braves could look into.
