This time last year, Atlanta had an All-Star shortstop, who was providing elite defense as Atlanta was marching furiously to the top of the National League East. The Braves would ultimately win the Division and make the post-season, which they have done each year since 2018.
That 2018 season was notable because it was also the first season that Dansby Swanson took over as the team’s starting shortstop for the entire season. Needless to say, when Atlanta began locking-up some of its young stars, it was fair to think that Swanson would be part of that long-term core.