It has been evident that the Atlanta Braves shortstop is experiencing a challenging season at the plate in 2024. However, there have been recent indications that Orlando Arcia may be experiencing a resurgence in his season, which is a development that the Braves and their supporters have eagerly anticipated throughout the season.
Braves Shortstop Career High Streak Could Revamp His Season
Following his selection to the All-Star team in 2023, expectations for the now 30-year-old player may have increased slightly. While he may not possess the same level of potential as a player like Bobby Witt Jr., there was an expectation that he would build upon his career-best season. Nevertheless, he may have discovered a more effective approach at the plate since the 2024 All-Star break. This has resulted in career and season highs that could potentially salvage his season and secure his position as a starting shortstop for the 2025 season.
Arica’s 16-Game On-Base Streak
Arcia has reached base in every game since the mid-season break. This impressive streak culminated in a career-high 13-game hitting streak, surpassing his previous record of 11 games set during his tenure with the Milwaukee Brewers. Despite recent challenges, including the lowest OBP and WRC+ among qualified hitters, Arcia has demonstrated a remarkable turnaround during his current streak. His walk percentage has increased from 5.8% to 13.8%, while his strikeout rate has decreased from 20.8% to 12.1%. This resurgence in performance aligns with the team’s long-standing need for consistent on-base presence.
His recent performance at the plate has significantly differed from his overall season numbers. Over the past 16 games, he has a .320 batting average, with 16 hits, four home runs, and eight runs batted in. Notably, his on-base plus slugging percentage (OPS) has reached an impressive 1.004, leading the Atlanta Braves during this period.
Soarrrrriinnn, flyyyyiiinnn
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— Bally Sports: Braves (@BravesOnBally) August 3, 2024
Arica’s Potential Role In 2025
There is still a considerable amount of baseball left to be played. Arica’s first half of the 2024 campaign may be considered a subpar performance. Or, starting Tuesday at home against the Brewers, this streak could be a flash in the pan. Many Braves fans will be hoping he can maintain similar statistics for the remainder of the season, as the playoffs will be soon. Arcia has contributed to the well-documented struggles of the 2024 Atlanta Braves offense.
As we approach the 2025 season, the question of who will compete for the starting shortstop position remains. Orlando Arcia has a favorable contract for the team, considering his role as the everyday starting shortstop. His three-year, $7.3 million contract, signed last season, is comparable to what bench utility players typically receive.
Will the Braves seek to enhance the shortstop position through trade or free agency, or will they continue to invest in developing their 21-year-old prospect? It is widely acknowledged that Nacho Alvarez Jr. requires additional seasoning in Triple-A Gwinnett.
Should Arcia sustain his current hitting performance, the job may be his. His exceptional defensive abilities will undoubtedly influence the decision. Consistently ranking within the top 90th percentile in outs above average is a significant accomplishment for a shortstop. However, a consistently productive offensive contribution would solidify his position in 2025. Surrounded by a formidable lineup, his potential for a league-average bat could be covered up again.
Main Photo Credits: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
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