Speaking to reporters before today’s game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, injured Atlanta Braves second baseman Ozzie Albies expressed his desire to return to the Braves’ lineup. If he does return, he would be limited to right-handed batting.
Ozzie Albies said he expects to be able to play again this season. He said he can only hit from the right side until the left swing feels better. Since the right swing feels good, he is confident he will be able to return within the next week — but there is no set date yet.
— Justin Toscano (@JustinCToscano) 13 September 2024
It should be noted that Albies wants to return and the team’s view on his return may not be the same, as Braves manager Brian Snitker commented to Mark Bowman of MLB.com.
Snit said he wasn’t sure if Albies would play again this year. When asked again if Albies would only pitch right-handed, Snit said they hadn’t had that conversation yet.
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) 13 September 2024
Albies pointed out that he did not speak to Snitker when making his comments to reporters.
After today’s practice, Albies says he’s ready to come back and hit exclusively right-handed. He hasn’t discussed it with Snitker yet. He also believes he’ll only need one rehab game.
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) 13 September 2024
Albies has been on the injured list since July 22, 2024. He was never placed on the 60-day IL, so he could be activated if he is deemed ready to play.
Whit Merrifield, whom the Braves signed to replace Albies, was out of action with a broken foot until attempting to return to the lineup today. Luke Williams and Cavan Biggio started in Merrifield’s place.
For his career, Albies has 939 batting appearances as a right-handed hitter, hitting a strong .932 – much better than his career numbers as a left-handed hitter. All but 15 of those right-handed batting appearances were against left-handed pitchers.
As the Braves fight for postseason survival, Albies’ return could give the team a boost in the final weeks of the regular season.
