Nine Feb. 23, 2022; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Atlanta Braves infielder Vaughn Grissom (18) is struck out in the fourth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross – USA TODAY Sports
Replacing an All-Star like Dansby Swanson won’t be easy, and there’s no way Atlanta will be putting all its eggs in Vaughn Grissom’s basket. But for now, the 22-year-old will have the opportunity to attend spring training and have a chance to compete for the starting shortstop job.
Grissom is a native shortstop, but he’s tall and lanky for the position. However, his work with Ron Washington this offseason suggests he could transition there with ease. Grissom also has experience at second base and could move to outfield if needed.
When asked about their training sessions, Washington said Grissom has made a lot of progress, although he still has room to grow.
“Growing up. I saw things I didn’t see before,” Washington said on Grant McCauley’s podcast. “He really, really, really wants it and he’s been giving his due time. I think the fans have to be patient.”
Warriors: Ron Washington still confident in Vaughn Grissom
Washington discusses how much of his work with Grissom is about footwork and defensive ability. Few of the shortstops Washington has worked with in the past have improved immediately, but Gleason is different in that regard. He made immediate progress.
Grissom was forced to play second base last season due to Ozzie Albies’ injury. As Washington said, “He’s trying to survive.” Grissom is doing just that, mostly because his bat stayed in the lineup.
“He’s got a skill set, I think, and he can be a big league shortstop. Now, is this going to happen overnight? Dansby It didn’t happen overnight. Marcus Semien didn’t happen overnight. Miguel Tejada didn’t happen overnight … All those names I just mentioned are really good players,” Washington said. “But I like the growth and I like the attitude. I like the commitment to the work ethic. He’s going to be a different looking guy.”
If Washington is right, Grissom could be Swanson’s replacement at the end of the 2023 season.
