This season, the Atlanta Braves have struggled with injuries. They may soon get a boost with the return of second baseman Ozzie Albies. Albies has been out of action since July 21 due to a fractured left wrist, but he is scheduled to return this weekend. According to Mark Bowman of MLB.com, Albies could start his rehab assignment as early as Tuesday.
Notably, Albies will bat primarily right-handed when he returns, as he can still swing effectively from that side despite the injury. Albies, although being primarily a switch-hitter, is willing to adjust and face right-handed pitchers on the right side. This unusual method demonstrates the team’s urgency as they compete for a postseason position.
Albies’ willingness to change his batting stance could offer a critical spark for the Braves’ late surge.
Ozzie Albies Aiming to Return This Weekend
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The Braves received a series of crushing blows, ending with Albies’ injury. Albies, a three-time All-Star second baseman, was batting.255 with eight home runs and 46 RBI, largely from the No. 2 spot in the order, before his season was cut short by injury. Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider were already out for the season due to surgery, while left-hander Max Fried was placed on the 15-day injured list only hours before.
Notably, Albies had been performing well when batting right-handed. He had a.343 average and.912 OPS in 101 plate appearances, compared to a.225 average and.645 OPS in 293 plate appearances when bats left-handed. His decision to bat primarily right-handed when he returns will be an interesting development to observe.
In Albies’ absence, the Braves added Whit Merrifield and Cavan Biggio to their lineup.
Merrifield has up to the occasion, hitting an impressive.269/.374/.370. The Braves are eagerly awaiting Albies’ return as they battle for the National League Wild Card place. Albies’ anticipated return could provide a significant boost to the team’s playoff prospects.
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