Ozzie Albies exemplifies the adage that stature isn’t everything in the world of baseball…

Despite being officially listed at a modest 5’8″, this switch-hitting second baseman for the Atlanta Braves has demonstrated considerable power, boasting two seasons where he’s achieved the milestone of 30 home runs and 100 RBIs.

Hailing from Curacao and proficient in four languages, the 27-year-old Albies has proven to be particularly formidable against left-handed pitchers, leading the league with an impressive .391 batting average against them last season, and maintaining a career average of .337 against them, a statistic that stands out in both leagues.

Having signed a seven-year, $35 million contract extension (which includes club options for 2026 and 2027) after starting his professional career as an amateur free agent in 2013, Albies transitioned smoothly from shortstop to second base in the minor leagues to accommodate the Braves’ future plans with Dansby Swanson.

Since his inaugural full season in 2018, Albies has consistently ranked among the top performers at his position, placing second in extra-base hits (336) and RBIs (446), and third in home runs (128) among all second basemen.

His contribution to the Braves’ success is undeniable, with his 33 homers last season aiding the team in tying a major-league record of 307. His versatility extends beyond hitting, as he also brings speed and defensive prowess to the team, earning comparisons to Houston’s Jose Altuve as a key player in the National League.

Could the outcome have been any worse?…

Seriously, was there any possible way for it to end more disastrously? Marcell OHzuna brought in his 40th run, securing a 3-2 lead for the Braves. Dylan Lee delivered a stellar performance in the eighth, prompting my son to wonder if Snitker would let him pitch the ninth.

Instead, A.J. Minter took the mound for the ninth, marking his second appearance in recent weeks. It felt like the setup for one of those predictable endings in a cliché Lifetime Network movie.

Initially, things seemed promising. Minter had Jeff McNeill at a disadvantage with two strikes, overpowering the persistent second baseman. Despite McNeill’s recent slump, he managed a cunning drag bunt, exploiting Minter’s tendency to fall off the mound towards third base and securing a base hit.

With a runner on base, Tomas Nido stepped up, presumably to advance McNeill. The outcome seemed inevitable, especially considering Nido’s batting struggles resembling Clark from the Benchwarmers. So, naturally, Minter threw him a changeup to facilitate an easy sacrifice. Could it have ended any worse?

The resounding answer is YES!

We can all concur that Pete Alonso holds the title of NY-doofus #1. McNeill sits at #3, indicating the involvement of NY-doofus #2 in this debacle. Brandon Nimmo, entering the game late, faced Minter and received six consecutive cutters, with the last one being particularly poorly executed. Nimmo capitalized on the opportunity.

Could it have ended any worse? NO! Mets 4, Braves 3.

SILVER LININGS
On a positive note, Bryce Elder performed reasonably well. OHzuna maintained his consistent performance. Additionally, the Braves won’t endure another Sunday night baseball game until next week. Relief…

Fortunately, the season isn’t over. With a record of 24-13, perhaps Snitker now realizes Minter’s vulnerability in the ninth inning. Maybe next time, he’ll defy the cliché ending of a Lifetime movie. One can only hope.

The Cubs visit tomorrow night, kicking off a three-game series in Atlanta.