The Atlanta Braves had a great regular season, but the holes in their lineup were too much to overcome in the postseason.
The Braves' lack of depth in the starting rotation was also an issue, but their bullpen covered two games against the Dodgers and the Braves came back to Atlanta with the series tied 1-1. However, they were unable to score runs at a high clip and ultimately saw their season end. The Braves could use an outfielder in free agency for sure, but they really need a shortstop.
It's no understatement to say that the Braves' biggest need this offseason is a shortstop. Ha-Seong Kim missed most of the season after suffering an offseason injury following the Braves giving him a one-year, $20 million deal. However, he struggled even when he was playing. Mauricio Dubón played a ton of shortstop and filled in as a left fielder as well. However, he will be a free agent this offseason.
The Braves could re-sign Dubón, but that still leaves them with a hole at either shortstop or in left field. Regardless, the Braves could use an upgrade on the infield. The options available in free agency are not so great, so a trade may be the best route.
The best true shortstop available is J.P. Crawford, but he was terrible at the plate this year. The Braves could look to sign a second baseman and move him to shortstop, or move Ozzie Albies to shortstop. Jazz Chisholm Jr., Jeff McNeil, Luis Arraez or Gleyber Torres could all be options for the Braves if they go that route.
With Dubón going into free agency, the Braves really need to address the shortstop position. The outfield and starting rotation will also need to be fixed, but shortstop is a bigger need.