How will Ozzie Albies’ return affect the Atlanta Braves?
With Ozzie Albies returning to the Atlanta lineup this weekend, the Braves have themselves an even more loaded roster.
One of the best teams in MLB just got one of its best players back for this weekend’s lineup.
After three months of missing out on baseball action due to a broken leg, Ozzie Albies returns to the Atlanta Braves. The reigning World Series champions are obviously thrilled to have their Silver Slugger player back for their postseason push, adding more depth and menace to their loaded roster.
Albies, who had been rehabbing with Triple-A Gwinnett recently, was reinstated from the injured list on Friday morning, before which he was recalled up to the Braves’ starting lineup.
Albies’ return balances things out for Atlanta
Albies’ comeback will help alleviate the wear and tear of the season overall.
Since Dansby Swanson, first baseman Matt Olson and third baseman Austin Riley play every single day, Albies can take pressure off these crucial players. He can also relieve outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. who continues to grind on a fragile knee. Acuña can still play the occasional right field, while getting a few days off here and there to better recover.
Additionally, the Braves are a better team overall with Albies on the lineup. Besides his power, the 25-year-old has an incredible rapport defensively, especially with Swanson. Just what Atlanta needs for their title defense.
Having Albies also alleviates the burden of Robbie Grossman and Eddie Rosario, who can balance out how much they play.
Last but not least, Albies’ return forces manager Brian Snitker to find a creative way to get rookie sensation Vaughn Grissom- who rose up to the occasion when Orlando Arcia suffered an injury- back into the lineup.