Should Braves Consider Signing Jazz Chisholm Jr.?

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Should Braves Consider Signing Jazz Chisholm Jr.?

Originally posted on Baseball Now | By Aaliyan Mohammed | Last updated Nov 6, 2026 4:26 PM ET

One of the Atlanta Braves' tp priorities this offseason should be finding a solution at shortstop.

They signed Ha-Seong Kim in the offseason, but between his injury and struggles, he was a disaster. Mauricio Dubón stepped up and really saved the season from being a total disaster at shortstop, but he is now a free agent. Even if Dubón comes back, he figures to be best used as a utility bat or outfielder.

The Braves will have plenty of options on the trade market as shortstops like Elly De La Cruz, Jeremy Peña, CJ Abrams and Otto Lopez are all rumored to be available. However, there is one intriguing name in free agency the Braves could look at: Jazz Chisholm Jr.

Chisholm did not have a good season, but when he's playing well there is no doubt he's one of the best players in the game. In 2025, he hit 31 home runs and stole 31 bases. The problem is that when he's bad he often becomes a distraction.

Chisholm's antics at times overshadow his play, but it's easy to overlook some of the controversial things he does on the field when he's putting up great numbers. Last season he caught a ton of heat for playing with a lollipop in his mouth at second base.

He has oftentimes drawn criticism for his celebrations or home run trots. However, all of that only seems to be a problem when he isn't playing well.

He will be looking to bounce back next season, and while the Braves could give him an opportunity to do that, they should steer clear.

Distractions aside, Chisholm is not really a great fit. He's a better second baseman than shortstop, and the Braves may have to move Ozzie Albies over to accommodate Chisholm. Additionally, he is going to be pricey and will carry a ton of risk coming off the year he just had.

On top of all of that, there are better options available. The trade market could be very busy this offseason, and the Braves would be better suited landing a true star shortstop that way.

This article first appeared on Baseball Now and was syndicated with permission.

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