This Michael Harris II update will catch Braves fans' attention.
The Atlanta Braves are set to play the Philadelphia Phillies on Friday night. The team initially released a lineup that included Michael Harris II, as he was set to bat fifth and play center field. However, a different lineup was later shared without Harris. According to Rick Barlow, Harris was scratched from the lineup. According to Braves manager Walt Weiss, Harris is considered day-to-day. Eli White is now playing center field and hitting ninth on Friday.
Harris exited Thursday's game against the Washington Nationals after suffering a quad injury scare. After the game, the star outfielder said he was hoping to play on Friday. However, nothing was guaranteed.
The Braves seemed to agree this morning. Weiss even went as far as to have him in the lineup. It is not certain what led to him initially being placed in the lineup and then scratched, but Atlanta is clearly proceeding with caution.
The 25-year-old has made a significant impact this season. Harris is hitting .318/.356/.565 across 24 games played. He has also recorded six home runs, three doubles and two stolen bases.
The Braves are certainly hopeful that Harris will not have to miss too much time. The fact that he is only day-to-day is encouraging, as that suggests he could return soon.
Atlanta will continue to closely monitor the situation. Updates will be provided as they are made available.
Braves to Begin Series With Phillies on Friday Night
The Braves will host the Phillies on Friday Night Baseball. It is always exciting when these two teams go head-to-head. However, they are currently trending in opposite directions.
Atlanta is in first place in the National League East with an 18-8 record. The Braves have been one of the better teams in the sport this year. Meanwhile, Philadelphia has lost nine consecutive contests and the team is in last place in the NL East with an 8-17 record.
The Phillies' pitching has especially struggled. Most of their starters have been unable to find consistency. As for the Braves, a number of players have stepped up. It has been a complete team effort.
Harris has been one of the best players on the team this year, so he will be missed without question on Friday night. Nevertheless, Atlanta still features a talented ball club. The Braves will enter the game with confidence while hoping that Harris will be able to return soon.