DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: NL East—ATL needs more from leadoff spot
Jul 3 2013
A lack of production from the leadoff spot continues to be one of the biggest issues facing the Braves. Entering play on July 2, the team had a paltry .243/.303/.367 with 7 HR and 12 SB from its leadoff spot. That .303 OBP ranks them 29th in MLB in that category (only the Mariners, Mets, Marlins and Twins have been worse.)
Andrelton Simmons (SS, ATL), the team’s primary leadoff hitter so far this season, has produced a .218/.254/.310 with 3 HR and 5 SB when batting first. Manager Fredi Gonzalez has utilized others, mainly Jordan Schafer (OF, ATL) and B.J. Upton (OF, ATL) in that role at times this season, but keeps coming back to Simmons. But one has to wonder if a change might come soon.
As we’ve discussed here before,...
Almost!
You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!
Already a subscriber? Sign in here
More From PT Tomorrow
Carlos Estévez is the closer in Kansas City for now, but Lucas Erceg owns the clear skills edge in the early going.
Apr 11 2025 3:09am
Apr 11 2025 3:09am
Are several Baltimore regulars at risk of falling into platoons? Plus, more early lineup and injury fallout from the AL East.
Apr 9 2025 3:01am
Apr 9 2025 3:01am
Cam Smith is off to a slow start, meaning the Astros may have to make an early change to fix their right field hole.
Apr 8 2025 3:01am
Apr 8 2025 3:01am
Tommy Kahnle converted his first save opportunity and is one to watch in an unsettled pen.
Apr 4 2025 3:06am
Apr 4 2025 3:06am
NL West: Díaz to see regular playing time in SD and early season bullpen usage around the NL West
Apr 3 2025 3:08am
Apr 3 2025 3:08am
