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Braves' Ozzie Albies fractures toe, placed on IL

Justin Toscano, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution on

Published in Baseball

In Albies’ healthy seasons, he’s been among the best offensive second baseman in baseball. He’s a two-time Silver Slugger Award winner and a three-time All-Star at the position.

Twice, he has eclipsed the 30-homer, 100-RBI mark. He’s never hit fewer than 24 home runs over a full season.

And in the clubhouse, Albies is part of the Braves’ heart and soul. He leads by example. Guys gravitate toward him.

Now, the Braves will need to make do without him — however long that becomes.

The Braves acquired Fletcher over the offseason during the string of deals following the Jarred Kelenic acquisition. To deal infielder Evan White and his bad contract, the Braves had to take on Fletcher and catcher Max Stassi. Atlanta dealt Stassi to the White Sox but kept Fletcher.

 

At the time, it appeared Fletcher may be the utility infielder for the major league team — even after Atlanta outrighted Fletcher off the 40-man roster. Then the Braves signed Luis Guillorme, who occupies the utility infielder role.

Over 50 at-bats for Gwinnett before joining Atlanta, Fletcher hit .280 with a .703 OPS. He drove in seven runs and stole two bases.

During spring training, Fletcher made a great impression. He displayed his tremendous glove and batted .324. Many times, Braves manager Brian Snitker lauded Fletcher and his ability.

But the hope, of course, is that Albies is back soon.


©2024 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Visit at ajc.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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