Orlando Arcia is projected to be the Milwaukee Brewers shortstop of the future. For the past two to three years, he’s been talked about heavily by scouts. The recent departure of Jean Segura meant that the majors were coming up on Arcia’s minor league timetable.

The only other player to play shortstop for the Brewers since is Jonathan Villar last season. However, even Villar, who the Brewers also want to build around, was forced to move to other positions on the team so Arcia could get some big league experience in 2016.

After the all-star break, Arcia was called up to the majors. The Brewers certainly appeared to be set on giving Arcia as much playing time as he could get. Arcia started in every game possible. He played 55 games in 2016. At the end of the season, Arcia showed that he had great defensive skills. Many scouts had talked about how well he played on defense in the minors. Arcia had proven those scouts to be be right. He also proved last season that he had room to improve on offense. He recorded 44 hits and a .219 batting average. Arcia may not hit for contact, but he has a little bit of pop in his swing. He totaled four home runs in 2016. Unfortunatley, his average suffered due to his free swinging tendencies. Arcia struck out 47 times last season.

Arcia has shown some promise this spring training. He’s been more consistent at the plate in Arizona. His batting average is currently up to .262 this spring. He’s also managed to hit 3 home runs and record 10 RBIs. His numbers don’t jump off of the page, but considering his performance in 2016, this spring training marks a good sign. On tuesday, Arcia hit two home runs off of Corey Kluber. The Brewers still have two games left in Arizona before opening day.

It’s important to note that Arcia is still only 22 years-old. There’s plenty of time in his career for him to craft his game in the majors. It’s pretty impressive to see what Arcia has shown in Milwaukee at such a young stage in his career.

This season will be another stepping stone for Acia. Milwaukee’s commitment to his development will continue on opening day. Arcia will be the Brewers every day starter in 2017. This year will be his first shot at a full season in the majors. Hopefully, he can build on what he’s already experienced with the Brewers. There’s no need to worry about his defense. If he can fix some of his issues at the plate though, Arcia will certainly be on his way to one of baseball’s next top young players. Best of all, the Brewers could have another player to build around for many years to come.

For quality up-to-date sports reporting, visit our website, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.

For all your collegiate and professional apparel needs, check out 365 Gameday.