Ahmed will open the year as the Diamondbacks' starting shortstop, Steve Gilbert of MLB.com reports. A second-round pick by the Braves in 2011, Ahmed took a significant step forward at the plate at Triple-A Reno last season, batting .312/.373/.435 with a 37:55 K:BB in 104 games (452 PA). Manager Chip Hale has decided to go with youth up the middle of the infield, slotting Chris Owings in at second base opposite Ahmed, with Aaron Hill coming off the bench. Ahmed has little power to speak of but can run. It's entirely possible Ahmed could approach 20 steals even in a bottom-third spot in the order, if he holds onto the job all year.