This player could make an impact for the Braves at shortstop.
Early in the offseason, the Atlanta Braves re-signed Ha-Seong Kim to be their starting shortstop for the 2026 campaign. However, he later suffered an injury and will miss at least the first month of the regular season. Unless they bring someone else in, it appears that Mauricio Dubon -- who the Braves acquired this offseason -- could be the answer at shortstop.
Dubon is arguably best-suited for a utility role, however. The idea of Dubon taking over starting shortstop duties has led to skepticism from some analysts. The infielder has an opportunity to silence the doubters in 2026.
Mauricio Dubon: Starting Shortstop for the Braves?
Dubon, 31, is a versatile player. In addition to shortstop, he can also play second base, third base, first base and in the outfield. Some versatile players only offer the ability to play multiple positions but with lackluster all-around defense. Dubon, though, is a terrific defender.
He is a two-time Gold Glove winner, earning the awards in 2023 and 2025 with the Houston Astros. He played just about everywhere during the '25 campaign, spending time at the following positions: shortstop, left field, second base, third base, center field, first base and right field. Most of his time was spent in left field and at second base, but he also played quite a bit of shortstop.
It seemed as if he was going to have a similar role in Atlanta before Kim's injury. Now, Dubon may spend at least one month at one position. The Braves also added Jorge Mateo who may see some time at shortstop. It remains to be seen if Atlanta will commit to one starting shortstop or if the team may have multiple players handle the position.
Dubon is the likeliest candidate to start there to begin the new campaign. The defense is strong, but the question mark stems from his offense.
Dubon hit .241/.289/.355 across 133 games played a season ago. He added seven home runs, 21 doubles and 43 runs scored.
The Braves did not add Dubon for his offensive prowess. If he can hit around .250 and get on base at a more respectable rate, he could provide offensive value, however. Meanwhile, his impressive defense will take care of the rest.
Mauricio Dubon can silence his doubters by playing excellent defense while taking a step forward offensively. Accomplishing those feats could also lead to more playing time even once Kim returns, as Dubon could start at various positions.