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Braves' Grissom: 'Not trying to fill nobody's shoes' at shortstop

Mitchell Leff / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Atlanta Braves infielder Vaughn Grissom is focused on remaining consistent as he enters his first campaign at shortstop following Dansby Swanson's departure to the Chicago Cubs.

Swanson left the Braves after seven seasons to join the Cubs on a seven-year, $175-million contract, but Grissom isn't trying to emulate his former teammate.

"The only thing I can do for you guys is just play my game," Grissom said, according to The Athletic's David O'Brien. "And if you (reporters) like it, I’m sure I’ll hear about it. And if you guys don’t, I’m sure I’ll hear about it.

"So to me, it doesn’t matter either way because I’m just gonna go play my game. And I’m not trying to go fill nobody’s shoes or do anything different."

Grissom made his MLB debut last season, flashing his potential with five home runs, 18 RBIs, and a .792 OPS in just 41 games.

Michael Harris II, Grissom's teammate and reigning National League Rookie of the Year, believes the 22-year-old's demeanor will help ease his transition to shortstop.

"He’s a hard worker, and I think his personality - it just sticks out. He’s a funny guy. He’s always goofy, and he’s just him. He doesn’t try to change for anybody. I think (that) just makes him a fit at shortstop for us."

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