The Atlanta Braves, much like many other teams in Major League Baseball, have been dealing with injuries throughout this season.
During Atlanta’s season opener, All-Star catcher Sean Murphy suffered an oblique strain and has yet to make a return to the field. Unfortunately, starting pitcher Spencer Strider underwent surgery on his right elbow, ruling him out for the entire 2024 season.
However, Atlanta might receive some much-needed reinforcements in the near future. Second baseman Ozzie Albies, who has been sidelined since last Tuesday due to a broken toe, has been actively working out and could potentially be activated as early as this Friday, which is when he becomes eligible.
Initially, it was expected that Albies would be out for three weeks to a month with the injury. However, manager Brian Snitker confirmed to the media before Tuesday’s game against the Miami Marlins that Albies is a strong contender to return on Friday. Albies participated in full batting practice on Monday following an on-field workout, showing no signs of restriction in his movement.
Before his injury, Albies had been batting .317/.386/.492 with two home runs and 14 RBIs in the lineup, typically following Ronald Acuña Jr. in all fifteen games he played. The injury occurred last Monday during a game against the Houston Astros when he was hit by a pitch on his toe. Despite finishing the game, Albies experienced pain and soreness. Subsequent medical checks and an X-ray confirmed a break in his big toe, leading to his placement on the injured list the following Tuesday.
In Albies’ absence, David Fletcher was called up from AAA Gwinnett and has been sharing playing time at second base with Luis Guillorme.
