MLB news: Cardinals Opening Day tribute, Braves message, Red Sox pitching
By Kevin Henry
Atlanta Braves news: Vaughn Grissom gets the message
In Atlanta, this wasn’t the way the shortstop battle was supposed to go this offseason.
After establishing himself as a key member of the Braves last season, most expected Vaughn Grissom to slide over from second base and take over at shortstop after Dansby Swanson left Atlanta to sign with the Chicago Cubs. However, a spring where Grissom was unable to show he was ready for the position left the Braves no choice but to send him to Triple-A to begin the season. That move opened the way for Orlando Arcia to start the year at shortstop for the Braves, and Atlanta rewarded him with a three-year, $7.3 million contract that includes a club option for 2026.
Certainly, the Braves expect the 22-year-old Grissom to be a part of the team this season, and to make contributions. That message is one that Atlanta’s Ron Washington, who works with the infielders, including Grissom, wanted him to take with him to Triple-A.
Vaughn Grissom shares Ron Washington's message to him:
— Bally Sports: Braves (@BravesOnBally) March 29, 2023
"Wherever they put you, you just gotta go take care of business. At the end of the day, if you don't like it, play better. I just gotta go take care of my business and try to get back." pic.twitter.com/W2VwlLXWdH
If Grissom “takes care of business” in Triple-A and shows improvement, or if the Braves have an injury at shortstop or second base, look for Grissom to be back with the big league club soon.