Atlanta Braves acquire former Top Prospect Shortstop from Athletics

The Atlanta Braves pull the trigger on their next offseason move. They acquired infielder Nick Allen from The Athletics in exchange for minor league right-handed pitcher Jared Johnson.

Allen has primarily played shortstop during his time in the Majors, a position that needs an upgrade. However, this seems more like a depth piece.

At one point he was a critically acclaimed talent. In 2022, he was the A’s No. 5 prospect. The year before he was their No. 3 prospect.

The promise has not yet been translated to MLB.

Allen played in 41 games with the then-Oakland Athletics. He hit .175/.216/.247 with a home run and four RBIs. It’s not exactly the production you’re looking for when trying to replace shortstop Orlando Arcia.

But if they learned anything last season, it’s that they need the options. Defensively he certainly provides depth. His prospect report considered him male capable of winning multiple Gold Glove Awards.

However, there is a chance that the bat could catch up with his glove.

Looking at his numbers in Triple-A will give you a better idea of ​​what the Braves are interested in. In 81 games with Triple-A Las Vegas, Allen hit .345/.431/.497 with seven home runs, 34 total extra-base hits and 51 RBIs.

Suddenly you see the potential. Now, Allen has been up and down over the past three seasons. It’s possible this is one of those Quad-A guys where they’ll tear up Triple-A but struggle at the Major League level. But on the other hand, the Braves could be the team to fulfill the potential. It wouldn’t be the first time this team has done something like this.

That said, there’s no reason to believe they still won’t chase a larger bat in the same position. At worst, it didn’t take much to acquire it.

Johnson was drafted by the Braves in the 14th round of the 2019 MLB Draft. Since turning pro, he has played in the lower minor leagues. The highest level he has performed at is at High-A Rome.

In 2024, he had a 2.60 in 38 appearances with the Emperors.