Here’s why Braves must upgrade from Nick Allen at shortstop before trade deadline

The Atlanta Braves began the 2025 season with dreams of winning the World Series. Now, their playoff chances have fallen from 93 percent to just 26 percent. The team isn’t hitting enough home runs, even with a strong lineup.

With the trade deadline a month away, the Braves need to make changes. Swapping shortstop Nick Allen for a better hitter could help save their season.

Braves need a better hitter at shortstop to improve their offense

Nick Allen is a great defender, making 12 outs above average this season. His defense is one of the best in the National League, only behind Bobby Witt Jr. But, his hitting is a problem, with just a .228 batting average in 56 games. The Braves need more runs, and Allen’s stats show he struggles at the plate.

His expected stats, like xwOBA and xBA, are very low, meaning he doesn’t help the team score. While his defense is amazing, the Braves need a shortstop who can hit better. A stronger hitter could boost the team’s offense and help them reach the playoffs. With the trade deadline coming soon, the Braves should find a new shortstop to fill this role on an immediate basis.Also Read: MLB insider claims Braves are risking long term future by refusing to trade Marcell Ozuna before deadline

Could a new player like Bo Bichette fix Atlanta’s shortstop problem

Recent posts on X mention Bo Bichette, a Toronto Blue Jays shortstop, as a possible trade target.

Bichette is a free agent after this season and could be available if Toronto doesn’t make the playoffs. He’s hitting .269 with eight home runs and 38 RBIs in 66 games. His offense is much better than Allen’s, though his defense isn’t as strong. Bichette could be a great fit for the Braves, helping them score more runs. However, other teams also want him, and Toronto might keep him if they’re close to the playoffs. The Braves could also look at the 2025 MLB draft for a new shortstop. For now, they need to act fast to find a better-hitting shortstop before the trade deadline ends.