Thoughts That Don’t Fit Elsewhere
The Atlanta Braves can’t expect Hilliard and White to play every day. That isn’t why the Braves acquired them or what their history shows as their strength. The Braves need Rosario to find his hit tool quickly.
Harris wasn’t knocking the cover off the ball when he injured his back, but he’s a hitter, and he will hit when he returns, though he’ll be starting from scratch again.
I wish I could say TDA’s concussion didn’t concern me, but a concussion is such a problematic injury the outcome is hard to predict, and this isn’t his first one.
Catchers not named Realmuto or Posey are rarely the regular cleanup hitter. I believe Murphy can be that guy, and hope that’s correct because he’s the best hope we have today.
At his best, Ozuna exuded joy from crushing homers and driving in runs, but that joy isn’t as evident now. Perhaps it’s the culmination of two years of injury and personal issues, but he doesn’t look like a player having fun. I understand why he may feel that way, but success and happiness are linked. Unless he remembers he’s there to have fun, I’m not sure how things improve.
That’s a Wrap
Fans want the Atlanta Braves to bench Ozuna, but what are the alternatives? With TDA on the IL, the bench consists of Hilliard, Pillar, White, Tromp, and Adrianza, none of whom offer a significant improvement. Unless something's changed, the Braves have no intention of using Grissom in the outfield. That may change if Arcia's bubble doesn't burst, but for now, the club wants him to play shortstop.
Putting a bow on this one in three sentences:
- Atlanta Braves’ pitching looks like it’s getting stronger in the next few weeks.
- The four, five, and six hitters must hit sooner rather than later.
- I hope Arcia’s start isn’t a mirage.
I hope to see Wright back in form tonight and end the day with an Atlanta Braves win.