The Braves' recent roster construction strategy has given the last position player spot to a player who could do all the specialty roles on the team without having to be counted on as an offensive performer. That role, for much of the last two years, has been filled by Luke Williams who added more to his non-offensive repertoire this year - position-player-pitcher guy.
For some, being a six-time Gold Glove award winner at one position may be enough. When it comes to Mookie Betts, being an elite outfielder defensively could only be enhanced further by also being an elite defensive infielder. Read more: Brewers Star Jackson Chourio Exits NLCS Game 3 vs Dodgers With Injury It's tough to bet against the star player in any situation. When Betts made the full-time move from right field to shortstop, a move essentially unprecedented in modern baseball, few thought he'd approach Gold Glove-level status.
However, one of the most intriguing prospects that wasn't mentioned is Bilal Coulibaly. The former No. 9 overall pick has shown flashes in each of his first two seasons, but his main calling card his been his defensive versatility. As on oversized guard, the French product's length and size allow for him to defend nearly every position on the floor. In addition to his frame, the guard's defensive insticts and IQ allow for him to be a game changer on the defensive end.
The Pirates have placed veteran infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa on outright waivers, Noah Hiles of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports. He'll be available to all 29 other clubs, with waiver priority determined based on the reverse order of the MLB-wide standings. Because he has not been designated for assignment, Kiner-Falefa can continue to play while on waivers. If another team claims him, which seems plausible, he'd be postseason-eligible because he'd join that club before Sept. 1. (Waivers are a 48-hour process.)
