Breaking News: Braves veteran Center Fielder Takes Significant Step Towards Return.
In a much-needed boost for the Atlanta Braves, center fielder Michael Harris II has begun running for the first time since his hamstring injury, signaling a significant step towards his return to the team ¹. Harris has been on the injured list (IL) since June 15th with a Grade 2 strain in his left hamstring, which typically carries a six to eight-week recovery timeline ² ³ ⁴.
Harris’s return can’t come soon enough for the Braves, who have been struggling with injuries and a lack of depth in their outfield ² ³ ⁴. The young outfielder’s presence will provide much-needed relief, despite struggling at the plate this season with a batting average of .250, five home runs, 20 RBIs, and an 84 OPS+ ² ³ ⁴. In his first two big league seasons, Harris batted .295 with a 124 OPS+, and he’s also stolen 20 bases in each of his first two seasons along with providing a quality glove in the outfield ² ³ ⁴.
Manager Brian Snitker reported that Harris started doing baseball activities a few days ago after being sidelined for a few weeks ² ⁴. He was seen throwing on the field before Tuesday’s game against the San Francisco Giants, which is a positive development in his recovery ² ¹ ⁴. While there is still no timeline for his return, Harris’s progress is a welcome sign for the Braves, who are hoping to get back their 2022 Rookie of the Year before the trade deadline ² ¹ ³ ⁴.
The Braves have been hit hard by injuries this season, with ace Spencer Strider out for the year and outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. lost for the season with an ACL tear ² ³ ⁴. The team is relying on Harris to provide a much-needed boost to their offense and help them catch up with the division-leading Phillies ² ¹ ³ ⁴.
While it may still be a couple of weeks before Harris returns to the lineup, his progress is a promising sign for the Braves ¹ ⁴. As the team continues to battle with injuries and a tough schedule, Harris’s return can’t come soon enough. His presence in the outfield and at the plate will be a welcome addition to a team looking to make a push for the playoffs.
The Braves will be facing the Giants in their next game on July 4, followed by another game against the Giants on July 5 and two games against the Phillies on July 6 and 7 ⁵. The Braves are hoping that Harris will be back in the lineup soon, but they will have to wait and see how his recovery progresses. One thing is for sure, the Braves need Harris back on the field as soon as possible if they want to make a run for the playoffs.
