Braves Recall Verdugo, Option De La Cruz Amid Outfield Struggles

ATLANTA, Ga. — The Atlanta Braves have made a significant roster change by recalling outfielder Alex Verdugo from Triple-A Gwinnett while optioning Bryan De La Cruz to the minors. This move comes just before a crucial home game against the Minnesota Twins, as the Braves seek to stabilize their struggling outfield.

Verdugo, who signed a one-year, $1.5 million contract with the Braves at the end of Spring Training, brings with him five years of Major League experience. Although he had a lackluster season with the New York Yankees in 2024, posting a batting average of .233 with a .291 on-base percentage, his past performance indicates potential. In his career, he has hit 70 home runs and demonstrated solid defensive capabilities, giving the Braves hope for improvement.

“We needed to shake things up a bit, especially in the outfield,” Braves manager Brian Snitker said. “Alex has shown he can be a productive player, and with the struggles we’ve had, we felt it was time to make a change.”

De La Cruz’s numbers from the season played a significant role in this decision. In 19 games, he recorded a dismal .191 batting average with no power, leading to a subpar on-base percentage. His recent performance slumped heavily, culminating in just a .059 batting average over his last 18 plate appearances.

“I’m disappointed, but I understand the competitive nature of this game,” De La Cruz said after being optioned. “I need to work on my consistency and get back on track.”

With a 5-13 start to the season, the Braves’ outfield has been a glaring weak spot, compounded by the absence of key players. Ronald Acuña Jr. is expected to return from injury soon, which may further impact playing time for Verdugo and other left-handed hitters like Jarred Kelenic and Harris.

In the meantime, Verdugo’s promotion from Gwinnett adds depth to a lineup that has needed reinforcements. Despite struggling in the minors this season, hitting .207/.303/.448, his familiarity with the game and left-handed bat can provide an edge for the Braves against right-handed pitching.

The Braves organization expressed optimism about this reshuffle, stating that they are confident Verdugo can elevate their performance as the season progresses. The team hopes that his addition will ignite a turnaround against the Twins in their upcoming series.

As the Braves prepare for Friday’s game at 7:15 p.m., eyes will be on Verdugo to see if he can deliver the spark the team desperately needs.