Much of the focus on Dansby Swanson and Johan Camargo resides on their offense. But the left side of the Braves’ infield is among the best in the game defensively.
While Swanson’s bat hasn’t developed as some hoped, his defense has been outstanding. His nine defensive runs saved are tied for sixth-best among shortstops, trailing leader Andrelton Simmons by five.
Camargo didn’t assume the full-time role at third until May 20, but his defense has been superb. His .946 fielding percentage doesn’t do it justice. Camargo boasts all the ideal traits to the eye test: versatility, speed, a quick reaction time and a rocket arm to beat faster runners.
The pairing has been formidable, and that’s without mentioning the currently injured Ozzie Albies at second and Freddie Freeman’s excellent glove work at first.
“They’re great on that left side,” starter Sean Newcomb said. “Everyone’s been solid, those two especially on that left side. They make those plays. It’s been huge as a pitcher having them over there.”
Swanson steadily provides speed and defense, making him a useful modern player even without much offense. He has come around in that department lately, homering Monday night and hitting .293 (22-for-75) with a .361 on-base percentage in the past 22 games.
Offense also will make or break Camargo’s ceiling. As talented as he is, there’s belief the Braves could still add a third baseman, be it at the trade deadline or in winter, who supplies more pop. Camargo would presumably shift back in a super utility role.
But the Braves stand to benefit from an extended look at Camargo, as explained before the All-Star break. And it's not as though the switch-hitter is holding the Braves back.
He homered in the Braves’ 9-3 loss Tuesday, his eighth since becoming the starting third baseman.
Camargo leads the team with 28 RBIs since June 1. He’s tied for the team lead with seven RBIs, hitting .326 in close and late-game situations.
He’s hitting .308 with runners on base, and .321 with runners in scoring position. Camargo started slowly as his playing time fluctuated, and has hit .268 with seven homers and a .350 on-base percentage in 51 games since being named the starting third baseman.
Consider Camargo’s newfound patience. Before Monday, he was walking every 8.06 plate appearance. That’s a drastic improvement from 21.33 last season. He’s already drawn more walks (34) in 74 games this year than in 82 last (12).
Both players had rare defensive miscues Tuesday. Swanson’s throw home was wide, allowing the Marlins to extend their lead (it wasn’t rule an error). Camargo was charged an error while attempting to field a throw from Ender Inciarte at third.
“That happens,” manager Brian Snitker said. “You’re going to have days like that. Overall, our defense is going to be there. It’s going to be consistent. We’re a really good defensive team.”
And Swanson and Camargo, Tuesday notwithstanding, are a significant reason why.
