The Atlanta Braves’ super-utility man Sean Rodriguez could very well be making his return back to the big league club.
The Atlanta Braves signed Sean Rodriguez to a 2 year, $11.5 million deal last November. He was in line to become our everyday second baseman, at least until Ozzie Albies was ready to handle it.
However, as most people are aware of, Rodriguez and his family were injured in a car crash in Miami back on January 28th, when a stolen police cruiser crashed into the family’s car.
He suffered a rotator cuff injury stemming from the crash, which led to offseason surgery. Initial reports said he might miss the whole season, while others said he’d be out 4-6 months.
As it just so happens, it’s looking like he might be returning shortly after the All-Star break.
#Braves INF Sean Rodriguez ramped up baseball activities throughout June. He hasn't ruled out returning just after the All-Star Break. https://t.co/CO33Re8hHy
— Grant McAuley (@grantmcauley) July 1, 2017
Rodriguez is only set to play a few innings today, but it’s good to see him back.
There might be a dilemma.
Once Rodriguez is healthy enough to return, where will the Braves play him? Brandon Phillips, who Atlanta traded for after Rodriguez’s injury, has been excellent at second base this year. There have been trade rumors surrounding him all season long, since he’s a free agent at season’s end.
Another issue at hand is all the talk about Freddie Freeman moving to third base once he’s back, and keeping Matt Adams at first base. Second and third base were the two main positions we needed Rodriguez for.
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He can play a corner outfield spot too if needed, but again, a trade of either Matt Kemp or Nick Markakis would have to happen to receive playing time.
I don’t see the Braves rushing Sean Rodriguez back, as they’ll want to make sure he’s 100% healthy. However, he will be a warm welcoming to the lineup.
Glass half full
Rodriguez is coming off a career year in which he slashed .270/.349/.510 and belted 18 home runs. What more can you ask for from a utility guy?
Adding Rodriguez to the mix gives them a deeper lineup, and allows them to possibly switch things up to see who fares better where.
As it sits today, the Braves only sit 3 games under .500 and 8.5 games out of both first place in the NL East and a wild card. It might seem farfetched to think they have a shot at either, but they’ve been playing well and their best player in Freeman is nearing a return.
The Braves could still make a run.
Next: Atlanta Braves mid-season top 50 prospects
All I’m saying is crazier things have happened.