As we told you earlier, Jason Heyward has decided not to participate in the All Star Game. He however reported no problems with his injured thumb after a round of batting practice on Saturday. He will travel to Anaheim and continue to take batting practice with the other All Stars. Heyward could return to the lineup as soon as Thursday’s series opener against the Milwaukee Brewers or could play a couple of games at Gwinnett before rejoining the Braves over the weekend. Either way barring a setback it appears that he won’t miss much more time.
Center Fielder Nate McLouth is on a rehab assignment at Gwinnett and has gone two for seven at the plate in two games. There is no apparent time table as to how long McLouth will stay in Gwinnett. He has been out since the June 9th collision with Jason Heyward left him suffering from concussion like symptoms.
With the return of Matt Diaz and the emergence of Gregor Blanco, the Braves outfield situation has gotten really crowded. Melky Cabrera filled in for McLouth before giving way to Blanco in center. Add to that Jason Heyward playing everyday in Right and Eric Hinske platooning in left with Diaz. There is also the need to get Omar Infante some at bats especially while he is swinging a hot bat. Despite Blanco’s production he could in fact be the odd man out once McLouth is healthy enough to resume playing.
Braves fans everywhere held their breath Friday when an errant Yunel Escobar throw forced Troy Glaus into an awkward tag of a runner at first base. The play caused Glaus to bend his wrist back. He stayed in the game and has only reported soreness. The All Star Break will be welcomed by Glaus and the Braves as they need to keep his big bat healthy for the stretch run.
Chipper Jones was scratched from the lineup on Friday but was back in there on Saturday. He along with David Ross will also surely be looking forward to the extra days off.