Atlanta Braves Expand For September to Help Determine Future
Let’s go ahead and get the big and obvious one out of the way. It’s no secret that Hector Olivera will be handling nearly all the playing time at third base this September. When you trade your second best starter and top prospect for someone, you’re anxious to see what they’ve got.
What many might not know is that Olivera’s first professional appearance at the hot corner came this year. While that’s not saying he won’t be an above average third baseman, it wouldn’t surprise me to see him get some reps at second base, first base, and maybe even a game or two in left field. I mean, couldn’t hurt at this point, right? Variety is the spice of life, after all.
Also, be on the lookout for how Fredi uses him in the lineup. Early reports on Olivera made it sound like the thinking around the clubhouse was that he would serve as protection for Freddie Freeman, which I don’t necessarily see right away. He’s batted 6th in the lineup both last night and today. But no matter how he’s used, it’s going to be one of the bright spots in an otherwise miserable September.
All I have to say as a disgruntled Alex Wood fan is: Olivera better be a rockstar.
Next: Center Field in 2016