In a pivotal move, the Atlanta Braves head coach has pulled out all the stops to bring in a crucial reinforcement just in time for their make-or-break series against the Miami Marlins. With their postseason hopes hanging in the balance, this strategic decision could be the spark the Braves need to turn things around as they fight to stay in the playoff race.
The good news for Atlanta is that many of these players have now returned to action, and another key figure is set to rejoin the team. According to Justin Toscano of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, star second baseman Ozzie Albies is slated to return for Atlanta’s upcoming weekend series against the Miami Marlins, after being out since late July.
Having Albies back, in any capacity, is a big win for the Braves. But the looming question remains: is this reinforcement coming too late in the season?
Braves Face Uphill Battle Despite Albies’ Return
While Albies’ return, even limited to batting right-handed, is crucial, it may not be enough to salvage Atlanta’s postseason hopes. Albies has always been an exceptional hitter from the right side of the plate, and even at less than full strength, he’s an upgrade over Whit Merrifield or Gio Urshela, who have been filling in during his absence.
However, the timing of his return poses a challenge. After their Thursday win, Atlanta trails the New York Mets and Arizona Diamondbacks by 1.5 games in the standings, with both teams playing later that same day. Depending on how those games unfold, the Braves could be anywhere from 1.0 to 2.0 games back heading into the Marlins series. With only nine games left in the regular season, the margin for error is slim.
Ultimately, Atlanta’s playoff hopes may come down to their pivotal three-game series against the Mets. Albies’ presence in those games could be a game-changer for several reasons.
First, Albies has posted a solid .775 OPS at Truist Park this season, significantly better than his .665 mark on the road. Second, he has driven in six runs in just six games against the Mets this year. Lastly, his career-high 20 home runs against the Mets are more than he’s hit against any other team.
In short, Albies has historically performed well at home and excelled against the Mets, making his return just in time for Atlanta’s most important series of the season.
Given their resilience throughout the season, it would be unwise to count the Braves out until they’re mathematically eliminated. Having Albies back, even if he’s not at 100%, gives the team a fighting chance to pull off a remarkable late-season push and keep their postseason hopes alive.
Leave a Reply