Braves News: Ozzie Albies rehab update, Atlanta's bizarre rotation plans, Matt Olson

The Atlanta Braves started their series with the LA Dodgers on a high note. Unfortunately, that didn't last as the team split the series. Starting pitching was a highlight for the series as they did a good job keeping the Dodgers offense at bay.

It was a sour end to what looked like a promising step in the right direction for Atlanta. But they reverted to the same lifeless offense that doesn't take advantage with runners in scoring position quickly. Despite this unfortunate ending, there is some good news that could help lift fans' spirits.

Braves News: Ozzie Albies to begin rehab assignment with Triple-A Gwinnett

It's been a long two months without Atlanta's second baseman but he's getting close to returning. It was reported last week that Ozzie Albies was ready to return to the team but would bat solely from the right side. His left-handed swing has been causing some discomfort. Luckily, Ozzie has better stats when batting right-handed so that should work in his favor.

We learned on Monday that Albies will begin a rehab assignment with the Gwinnett Stripers in Jacksonville, FL. He will play second base in two games on Tuesday and Wednesday. The plan after that is to have him rejoin the Braves as they begin a three-game series with the Miami Marlins on Friday.

Whit Merrifield has done a great job filling in for Ozzie but it's time for Atlanta to get their star second baseman back in the mix. It was reported the Braves' plan for Merrifield was to reserve him to potentially play in left field or third base. Third base is highly unlikely because Gio Urshela's defense is so valuable.

No matter what the team decides with Whit, it will be great to see Ozzie back in the lineup.

Braves announce bizarre plan for rotation ahead of series against Reds

Reynaldo Lopez unfortunately landed on the 15-day IL after pitching in just one inning during his last start. He was diagnosed with right shoulder inflammation and he isn't eligible to return until the final week of the season. There's a chance he may be done for the regular season so he's fresh for the playoffs, should Atlanta make it in.

This leaves the Braves with a void to fill and Lopez's spot in the rotation is now here. Atlanta's decision is a bit of a confusing one as they decided Grant Holmes would start Tuesday's series opener in Cincinnati.

Atlanta chose to go with Grant Holmes for game one of the Reds series. Holmes has started a few games for the team this season and has been decent. However, he's been primarily used out of the bullpen for a while now.

He's been struggling with letting opponents get hits a good bit and the Blue Jays tagged him for three runs on five hits over two-thirds of an inning a couple of weeks ago. Holmes makes sense as he's already on the roster and wouldn't require a move.

However, Holmes' ERA through four starts is 4.57 over 21.2 innings. He's walked five and struck out 26 batters and also has a 3.86 FIP. Opponents carry a .273 average against him during that stretch as well. It's tough for the Braves to run out Holmes knowing things could go sideways. They need their best right now as they fight for a playoff spot. Hopefully, this move works out and he's able to provide the team with a quality start.

Matt Olson ties legendary baseball player for most consecutive games as a first baseman

Matt Olson has struggled a bit in 2024 but he's continued to be one of the most dependable first basemen when it comes to playing every game. Olson is one of the few active baseball players to have not missed a game for a long time.

Atlanta's first baseman has started in 604 games consecutively. He could be the next Iron Man if he keeps this up. However, Olson made his 477th consecutive start at first base which tied him with Pete Rose as the longest streak of games played at first base in the last 80 years.

If there's one thing Braves fans can depend on, it's Matt Olson starting at first base. He does a great job at keeping himself healthy so he can be on the field for fans.

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