The Atlanta Braves were dealt some brutal news when Ha-Seong Kim suffered an injury that will keep him out for the next 4-5 months. They need a new shortstop, and while they have a few options, they aren't great.
But, after that news, Ronald Acuna Jr. was seen taking ground balls as an infielder over the winter, which led to speculation from fans that the superstar might move to the infield.
MLB.com reporter for the Braves, Mark Bowman, revealed an update on this potential position change. Unfortunately for fans hoping to see Acuna make the change, Bowman poured cold water on the rumors.
Braves insider pours cold water on Ronald Acuna Jr. position change rumors
"No. I just confirmed with the Braves that they have no plans for Acuna to even toy with playing SS or any other infield positions," Bwoman reports. "He's certainly not the only OF who takes grounders, especially in the winter."
Acuna, while he was seen taking ground balls, isn't making the move to become an infielder this offseason.
It's just another way to practice in the offseason, and it's far from the only time a star outfielder did such a thing for the Braves.
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Bowman revealed that recently elected Hall of Fame center fielder, Andruw Jones, also took grounders in the infield during his playing days, and asked to play shortstop during Spring Training games.
It would've been a fun move for Acuna, but it's not a realistic solution to the Braves now iffy shortstop position.
Acuna isn't moving to the infield now, or anytime soon. It's a fun hypothetical, but it won't happen. Acuna will stick in the outfield for the Braves, with Mauricio Dubon and Jorge Mateo taking over at shortstop until Kim gets healthy.
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