The Atlanta Braves are set to welcome back Jurickson Profar from an 80-game PED suspension on Wednesday. His return necessitated a roster adjustment, leading to the decision to designate outfielder Alex Verdugo for assignment. This move was anticipated, as both Verdugo and Eli White were potential candidates to lose their spots given their limited playing time prospects once Profar was back on the field.
Verdugo’s performance had declined significantly; in his last 17 games, he managed a disappointing .429 OPS, struggling both offensively and defensively. His struggles at the plate and lack of speed made him a less viable option for the Braves, especially considering that White offers some defensive versatility and pinch-running capability.
By parting ways with Verdugo, the Braves may actually be improving their overall roster dynamics. Verdugo was initially signed to a minor league deal, which mitigates the financial consequences of this decision. While the Braves might not be able to keep him in the minors following the designation for assignment, they feel confident with White’s depth in the outfield as they prepare for Profar’s reinstatement.
This roster change represents a key moment of growth for the Braves, as they look to optimize their lineup for the remainder of the season. As Profar steps back into the mix, fans can remain hopeful about the team’s potential moving forward.