Atlanta Braves second baseman Ozzie Albies is headed to the injured list after exiting Sunday’s game in the ninth inning with a left wrist injury. Albies left the game after his wrist was bent backward while attempting to tag out Michael Siani on the basepaths.
#Braves‘ Albies left the game after hurting his left wrist when he tried to tag runner on a stolen base in the ninth inning. Glove came off and hand got bent back.
— David O’Brien (@DOBrienATL) July 21, 2024
Braves to Place Second Baseman Ozzie Albies on the Injured List
Braves manager Brian Snitker told reporters post-game that Albies is still being evaluated and the injury is “not good.” While Atlanta has not made an official move, Snitker confirmed that the 27-year-old infielder will go on the injured list. Losing Albies, who has already spent time on the injured list this season, is just the latest blow for Atlanta. Already without reigning NL MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. and ace Spencer Strider, Atlanta placed right-hander Max Fried on the injured list with forearm neuritis on Sunday. With outfielder Michael Harris II also sidelined, the Braves will limp toward the deadline without five of their biggest stars.
Albies is having a slightly down year, slashing .255/.308/.403 with eight homers and eight steals through 89 games. Who Atlanta will turn to in the absence of their All-Star second baseman is unclear. However, Snitker hinted that Albies’ stint on the injured list would be lengthy.
Ozzie Albies is still having his left wrist evaluated, but #Braves manager Brian Snitker said “it’s not good” and Albies will go on the IL.
— David O’Brien (@DOBrienATL) July 21, 2024
Earlier this year, infielder Zack Short stepped up for an injured Austin Riley, but has since struggled off the bench. Still, Short is on the active roster and could easily slide over to second with Albies on the shelf. Turning to the minors, Atlanta could promote No. 5 prospect infielder Nacho Alvarez, despite lacking experience at the keystone.
Depending on the severity of Ozzie Albies’ injury, the Braves could explore the infield market ahead of the trade deadline. Miami Marlins second baseman Jazz Chisholm Jr. is among the top infield pieces available and is under club control through 2026. Among the veteran rentals likely to be dealt are Amed Rosario of the Tampa Bay Rays and Brandon Drury of the Los Angeles Angels.
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