Braves Face Tough Decision with Acuña’s Return

ATLANTA, GA — The Atlanta Braves are preparing for the return of star outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. from his rehabilitation assignment. His comeback raises questions about the roster, particularly concerning Alex Verdugo‘s role on the team.

Acuña, a dynamic player known for his hitting and fielding abilities, is expected to significantly boost the Braves’ performance when he returns. However, his re-entry into the lineup may require the team to make a difficult choice, including potentially designating Verdugo for assignment. Since joining the Braves on April 17, Verdugo has struggled at the plate, recently posting poor offensive numbers.

In his first eight games, Verdugo had a strong start, hitting .333 with a 133 wRC+. However, his performance has since declined, dropping to a .219 average and a 56 wRC+ in recent weeks. With Acuña’s impending return, Verdugo’s spot on the team is increasingly uncertain. The Braves’ front office may opt to cut Verdugo, who has been a liability in left field this season.

In contrast, Eli White, another outfielder, has been hitting better than Verdugo with a wRC+ nearly 40 points higher since May. White’s contributions in terms of speed and defense may make him a more valuable option for the Braves moving forward, potentially solidifying his role as the starting left fielder.

As manager Brian Snitker considers these options, the major question looms: Will the Braves hold on to Verdugo despite his lackluster performance, or will they trust White to take over as a full-time starter in left field? The decision will significantly impact the Braves’ lineup as they prepare for the rest of the season.

As Acuña’s return draws closer, the Braves face pressure to make the right move. The team hopes to strike a balance between a solid offensive lineup and efficient roster management.