The Atlanta Braves‘ problem at second base has finally been solved.
For weeks, the Braves have cycled through players in an attempt to find a replacement for Ozzie Albies after their young star landed on the Injured List with a broken foot. He is finally back in action as the Braves reinstated him from the IL on Friday.
Ozzie Albies provides needed boost for Atlanta Braves
The Braves brought in several option in a desperate attempt to find a stopgap. Ehire Adrianza, Orlando Arcia, Phil Gosselin, and even the corpse of Robinson Cano all got looks. Eventually, prospect Vaughn Grissom took over the position due to a hot start, but he has drastically cooled off as teams have gotten a better look at him at the plate.
Attempting to replace Albies was likely to be a fool’s errand. While he is in the midst of his worst season in the majors, Albies has still been a solid piece in the lineup. He had posted a .244/.289/.405 batting line with eight homers and 15 doubles in his 263 plate appearances. While those numbers may not be at his typical level, they are better than what the Braves had received in his absence.
His return also gives him plenty of time to get back on track. There are just over two weeks left before the postseason, allowing Albies to get those plate appearances needed to make an impact in October. All they need is for Albies to get back to being himself, which these final few weeks will allow.
And that is what is important. The Braves lineup is clicking as they are battling the Mets for the division lead. If Albies can return to form, he could be the missing piece as they look to defend their World Series title.
Ozzie Albies is back with the Atlanta Braves. If he can get back on track, he could be the piece they have been looking for in their lineup.