The Atlanta Braves are finally on the verge of reintroducing daily center fielder to the lineup. He has been sidelined since June, will be activated from the 60-day disabled list on Wednesday, just in time for the third game of the Braves’ four-game series against the San Francisco Giants, according MLB.com.
Michael Harris II will get back in there tomorrow. He is eligible for release and is in good health. Had an excellent rehab. It would be great to get one of our guys back. It’ll be fantastic. Be great. It’s been a long time without him. We understand what a terrific talent he is and what he can provide,” manager Brian Snitker told Bally Sports South on X.
Michael Harris II was placed on the 60-day injured list after straining his left hamstring, which limited him to just one plate appearance in the Braves’ 7-3 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays on June 14. His injury has led the Braves to rotate center field duties among Jarred Kelenic, Ramon Laureano, and Eli White, with White starting in center field for Atlanta’s game against the Giants on Tuesday night.
Harris’ 2024 season has been disappointing for both him and the Braves. Following two outstanding seasons early in his career, the 23-year-old center fielder has faced challenges this year, with reduced power production and diminished contact quality. He is currently hitting .250/.295/.358, the lowest figures of his career to date.
On a positive note, Harris showed promise during his rehab assignment with the Gwinnett Stripers, going 10-for-23. This could be a good sign for his performance moving forward, especially after a rocky start to the 2024 season.
The Braves will need Harris to return to his 2022 and 2023 form, particularly as their offense has not been as strong as in previous years.
Things are looking up for the Braves
The Braves are in a tight battle for a National League wild card spot, heading into Tuesday with just a 1.5-game lead over the New York Mets for the final wild card position. Getting Michael Harris II back could not be more timely.
Beyond Harris, manager Brian Snitker offered some encouraging news about the recovery of other key players.
“Reynaldo Lopez is throwing right now as we’re speaking. Ozzie Albies is also healing. It’s all good news as we start to get our team back together,” Snitker noted.
Starting pitcher Reynaldo Lopez, currently on the 15-day injured list with a forearm issue, is on a rehab assignment in Triple-A, indicating his return may be imminent. Although Ozzie Albies, who is recovering from a fractured wrist, may not be ready soon, Snitker’s comments suggest he is making progress.
The Braves will need all their key players back to maintain their playoff position.
Leave a Reply