4 Candidates to Replace Injured Atlanta Braves OF Cristian Pache

2. Guillermo Heredia – Atlanta Braves OF

Another of the most likely options to replace Pache is outfielder Guillermo Heredia.

Heredia was called up by the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday afternoon, as he was already the only other outfielder on the Braves 40-man roster. Based on current production, Heredia would be a quality option to fill-in for a small amount of time.

Heredia has never really been a full-time starter during his 5-year MLB career, but did get notable at-bats during his first three seasons with the Mariners where he hit .244. Looking at the 2019 and 2020 season’s, Heredia spent time with the Rays and Pirates, but his latest with the Mets was some of the best production of his young career.

Heredia spent 7 games with the Mets during the 2020 season, but had some impressive numbers during limited action.

Heredia went 4/17 with 2 HRs and 3 RBIs, but put up by-far career highs in a few notable categories. A .588 SLG%, .866 OPS, and a 129 OPS+ were all career-highs for Heredia, and given the recent success, there is reason to believe that he could put up similar numbers in a limited role with Atlanta.

Heredia also batted .240 during spring training with the Braves with a .627 OPS. However, a .387 OBP is very impressive in the 25 limited at-bats.

While the Braves will most likely use Heredia in a bench role with spot starts every couple of days, he is an interesting option if given enough at-bats.

If the Atlanta Braves are seeking a strong and dynamic outfielder capable of playing all three positions, while also batting around .240 capable of power-upside, it’s Heredia.