He’s 21 years old. His real name is Ignacio, but no one calls him that. Even Baseball Reference has succumbed to Nacho. And if you don’t know this Braves prospect yet, study up, because he’s going to be here sooner than later.

Drafted in the 5th round of the 2022 MLB draft, then 19 y/o Nacho hit the ground running in Low-A and Rookie ball, but not in the statistical categories of what was thought to be his calling card. Coming out of the draft, Nacho was pushed as a power hitting 3B. However, he’s only seen 137 innings at 3B. He’s also only hit 8 HRs in 641 PAs.

What Nacho does very well is something that’s a direct contrast to most on the MLB club. He walks a TON and puts the ball in play. In 641 PAs, Nacho has…

  • Walked 97 times
  • Collected 157 hits
  • Collected 38 XBH
  • Stolen 26 bases in 32 attempts
  • Career OBP of .410

While Nacho has only played SS and 3B in professional ball, he’s like Martin Prado, a chameleon, and would likely be able to moonlight all over the diamond. HIs foot-speed, while getting better, lacks the range of Orlando Arcia, but his hands and instincts are other-worldly and, like Arcia, Nacho is gifted with a strong arm.

While the Braves do not seem to have any holes on the MLB squad, if Ozzie Albies, Orlando Arcia, or even Austin Riley have to hit the shelf for a considerable amount of time, it could be Nachos for all.

Join us at the Bar to talk Nacho! Just Click the Image below