The Atlanta Braves got some big news on Friday morning as second baseman Ozzie Albies is set to make his return after fracturing his foot earlier in the year.
As the Atlanta Braves continue to make a run at the NL East and finish the 2022 season strong, they get a two-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger back in the form of Ozzie Albies.
The 25-year-old fractured his foot on a foul ball back on June 13 and has been absent ever since.
Orlando Arcia and Vaughn Grissom have done a solid job filling in for Albies, but the Braves are certainly glad to have one of their clubhouse leaders back.
Ozzie spent the last two weeks rehabbing with Gwinnett and after a slow start, he finished 9-27 with a triple, a homer, no walks, and 6 strikeouts.
It’s unfair to expect Ozzie to return and be the Silver Slugger we’ve seen in the past after missing three months.
And let’s not forget, Ozzie was in the midst of having one of his worst seasons slashing .244/.289/.405. But the power was there with 8 home runs in 62 games.
One thing we know that Ozzie will provide is Gold Glove level defense.
We will see how Brian Snitker decides to use Ozzie. Ronald Acuna Jr. has been using the DH spot because of the soreness in his knee, but you would think Ozzie might need the DH every now and then.
Grissom has to remain in the lineup with his bat, so we’ll see if he gets some starts in the outfield.
But having too many good hitters is never something I will complain about.
And perhaps the best part about having Ozzie back is the leadership he brings to the clubhouse. Everyone loves being around Ozzie, and hopefully that will help provide a spark for the Braves down the stretch.