The Atlanta Braves are set to receive a significant boost as they reinstate All-Star second baseman Ozzie Albies from the injured list following an absence of nearly two months. In a related move, the team has optioned infielder Cavan Biggio to Triple-A Gwinnett to make room for Albies’ return.
At 27 years old, Albies has been sidelined since July 21 due to a wrist fracture he sustained during a game against the St. Louis Cardinals. The injury occurred while he was attempting to field a throw during a stolen-base attempt. In a collision with Cardinals outfielder Michael Siani, Albies’ glove hand was bent back, leading to the fracture. Despite this setback, he has shown resilience and is eager to return to the field.
For the time being, Albies will only bat from the right side as he continues to experience some discomfort when hitting left-handed. However, his proficiency as a right-handed hitter is noteworthy, as he boasts a career OPS of .932 against left-handed pitching, indicating his potential to make a strong impact in the lineup.
This season, Albies has played in 90 games and has recorded a batting average of .258, along with eight home runs and 46 runs batted in. In preparation for his return, he participated in a rehab assignment with the Stripers, where he demonstrated his readiness by hitting a three-run homer in his first game back on September 17. The following day, he further showcased his hitting ability by going 2-for-5 with two singles.
In Albies’ absence, the Braves have relied heavily on veteran Whit Merrifield, who has filled in admirably. The 35-year-old Merrifield has produced a solid batting line of .269/.374/.370 over 36 games since joining the team earlier this summer after being released by the Philadelphia Phillies. With Albies back in the fold, the Braves might consider a platoon arrangement, allowing Albies to ease back into the lineup while sharing time with Merrifield. This strategy could prove beneficial, particularly since Braves second basemen have struggled, posting a collective batting line of .220/.319/.296 in 216 plate appearances during Albies’ absence.
The timing of Albies’ return is crucial for the Braves, who currently sit 1.5 games behind the Arizona Diamondbacks and New York Mets for the final playoff spot in the National League. Atlanta holds the tiebreaker over Arizona but has split their season series with the Mets, making the upcoming three-game series at home against New York a pivotal point in their playoff chase. With Albies back in action, the Braves are hopeful that they can make a strong push toward securing a postseason berth.