Braves: 1 trade, 1 signing and 1 prospect to win another World Series

Braves rumors: Vaughn Grissom is a prospect to watch

Vaughn Grissom was tabbed early this offseason as a potential in-house replacement for Dansby Swanson. However, even if the Braves were to go in a different direction at shortstop, Grissom will still play an important role on this team.

Grissom played second base last season when Ozzie Albies was out. There’s even been some talk of playing him in left field should that situation not resolve itself early this year. The 22-year-old has an important role on this Braves team, and will eventually earn an everyday spot. Ron Washington seems certain that Grissom can play shortstop if Brian Snitker prefers him there.

“He’s got a skillset, that I feel, he can be a major-league shortstop. Now, will that happen overnight? It didn’t happen overnight with Dansby. It didn’t happen overnight with Marcus Semien. It didn’t happen overnight with Miguel Tejada…and all those names I just named are pretty good players,” Washington said. “But I like the growth and I like the attitude. I like the commitment to the work ethic. He will be a different looking guy.”

Grissom has been working out with Washington in New Orleans this offseason with hopes of transitioning to shortstop. Vaughn has the range and ability, but he needs to prove it in live game action.

Whatever Grissom’s future holds, Atlanta would be wise to keep his bat in the lineup regularly. It’s his strength, and something the team could use on a consistent basis.