The Atlanta Braves are reportedly poised to make a significant move to replace Ha-Seong Kim at shortstop by targeting an All-Star infielder whose skillset is being compared to that of their own superstar second baseman, Ozzie Albies.
The player predicted to fill the void is Jorge Polanco, and the contract projection that aligns with the “All-Star with Albies traits” description is a deal with an Annual Average Value (AAV) close to the reported figure.
The $26 Million All-Star: Jorge Polanco
While the exact $26 million figure is often a round projection for a high-end player, the market consensus suggests Polanco is a prime candidate for the Braves due to his offensive profile and availability.
| Player | Position | 2025 All-Star? | Contract Projection | AAV Range | Albies Trait |
| Jorge Polanco | SS/2B/3B | Yes (2019) | 2 years, $24M – $30M | $12M – $15M | Switch-Hitter, Power, Positional Versatility |
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- The “Albies Trait”: Polanco is a switch-hitter with above-average power (26 HR, 30 2B in 2025) and versatility. Like Albies, he is a middle infielder who offers significant pop from both sides of the plate, a rare and highly valued asset in any lineup.
- The $26M Connection: While Polanco’s projected AAV is closer to $12M-$15M, a two-year, $26 million total value deal is an actual market prediction seen for a similar player. This figure represents the total cost of securing him, making him a more affordable high-impact bat compared to the multi-year, $100M+ contracts sought by players like Ha-Seong Kim and Bo Bichette.
- Instant Lineup Reshaping: If the Braves sign Polanco, his powerful bat and switch-hitting ability would immediately lengthen a lineup that has struggled with offensive production at the shortstop position for several years.
The Trade-off: Offense vs. Defense
The decision to pivot from Ha-Seong Kim to Jorge Polanco is a choice the Braves must weigh carefully:
| Player | Strength | Weakness | Impact on Lineup |
| Ha-Seong Kim | Elite Defense (Gold Glove winner) | Questionable Offensive Consistency | Defensive upgrade, offensive uncertainty |
| Jorge Polanco | Proven Offense (.821 OPS, 26 HR) | Below-Average Shortstop Defense | Offensive guarantee, defensive downgrade |
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As analysts noted, the Braves “can’t afford another season where the shortstop position fails to produce at the plate.” Polanco solves this offensive problem immediately, and the team will have to accept the defensive risk at shortstop, hoping the increased run production outweighs the fielding lapses.
The Atlanta Braves are focusing on Jorge Polanco to anchor their infield offense. Polanco is coming off a strong season where he posted an .821 OPS with 26 home runs. Could you find the latest projection or prediction for the final contract Polanco is expected to sign this offseason (years and total value)?
