PT TOMORROW: NL East—Might Acuna open 2018 in the ATL outfield?

Atlanta Braves

The Braves don’t have many question marks in terms of position players heading toward 2018. There are two main areas to monitor in the coming months—right field and third base.

As we have written previously, top prospect Ronald Acuna (OF, ATL) is expected to compete for a starting outfield job in spring training. The 19-year-old has had a tremendous year, slashing .325/.374/.522 with 21 HR and 44 SB in 557 AB combined between Single-A, Double-A and Triple-A, including a .344/.393/.548 line with 9 HR and 11 SB in 221 AB with Triple-A Gwinnett. Nick Markakis (OF, ATL) would most likely be traded to make room for Acuna, as his contract makes him a much more attractive option than Matt Kemp (OF, ATL) would. Markakis will be...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

With teams still putting rosters together, each of the NL West teams (even the Dodgers), has some work to do. What are next steps each team might take?
Jan 29 2026 3:06am
What does the acquisition of Luisangel Acuña mean for the outfield picture in Chicago? Plus, a look at DET SS options, the catcher situation in KC, and the CLE and MIN rotations.
Jan 26 2026 3:03am
Ben Williamson is currently the projected third baseman for the Mariners, but a shakeup may be needed.
Jan 20 2026 3:01am
Chicago signed Bregman to a 5-year/$175 million deal, how does it impact their roster?
Jan 15 2026 3:09am
Coby Mayo (pictured) and Ryan Mountcastle have been squeezed from regular reps in BAL, while Triston Casas is in a similar spot in BOS; plus, more offseason fallout from the AL East.
Jan 13 2026 3:01am

Tools