Cameron Maybin stirred the pot on Thursday with a cryptic post that sent baseball fans into detective mode. The former MLB outfielder took to X (formerly Twitter) to tease that a “MAJOR” player is working on a position change - and that was all it took to ignite a flurry of guesses, theories, and Instagram sleuthing.
One of the most intriguing clues? A video posted by Ronald Acuña Jr. on his Instagram story. In it, the reigning NL MVP is seen fielding grounders in the infield, making a throw across his body - a move that looked a lot like what you’d expect from a shortstop ranging to his backhand side.
Naturally, Braves fans started connecting the dots. Could Acuña - one of the most electric outfielders in the game - be eyeing a shift to the infield?
Let’s pump the brakes for a second. Acuña has never played an inning of professional baseball outside the outfield.
He’s made his name in right field, where his elite arm strength and athleticism have made him a human highlight reel. He’s not just serviceable out there - he’s a star.
But here’s where things get interesting: The Braves suddenly have a need at shortstop. With Ha-Seong Kim sidelined due to injury, the position’s wide open. And while it’s a long shot, the idea of Acuña stepping in - even temporarily - isn’t completely off the wall.
We’ve seen something like this before. Mookie Betts, another elite right fielder, made the move to shortstop with the Dodgers.
His first season at the position had its growing pains, but by year two, he was flashing the leather well enough to win a Gold Glove. That transition didn’t happen overnight, and it took serious commitment - but it proved that a move from right field to shortstop, while rare, isn’t impossible.
Could Acuña pull off something similar? Physically, he checks a lot of boxes.
He’s got the quickness, the arm, the instincts - all traits that translate well to the infield. But shortstop is a demanding position, one that requires years of reps and a deep understanding of angles, footwork, and timing.
Even for a generational athlete like Acuña, it would be a steep learning curve.
It’s also worth noting that this could just be part of a broader offseason training regimen. Players often work out at different positions to improve agility, footwork, or just to shake things up. A few infield reps in January don’t necessarily mean a position change is coming.
Still, it’s hard not to wonder. The Braves have a hole.
Acuña is a freak athlete. And Maybin’s post has everyone guessing.
Whether this is a real move in the works or just a bit of offseason intrigue, it’s got fans talking - and that’s half the fun this time of year.
For now, we’ll wait and see. But if Ronald Acuña Jr. ever trots out to shortstop in a Braves uniform, you can bet the baseball world will be watching closely.