Dubón Eyed as ATL Super-Utility Piece, Acuña DH Role in Play
Atlanta plans to keep Dubón in the lineup daily by rotating him through positions, including RF, which would shift Acuña to the DH spot.
The Braves intend to use Mauricio Dubón as an everyday super-utility player rather than a traditional bench piece. Part of the plan involves starting him in right field a couple of times per week, which would allow Ronald Acuña Jr. to serve as the designated hitter on those days. The arrangement is complicated by Sam Jarvis getting starts at shortstop, which could limit Dubón's infield opportunities and push him to the outfield. The role is fluid and dependent on how Atlanta manages rest days across the roster.
More on the Braves wire.
Smith-Shawver Minor League Stint Ends Friday, Braves Decision Looms
After a dominant 6.1-inning outing at Gwinnett, Smith-Shawver is set to clear his rehab minimum and could return to Atlanta's rotation.
Strider Starts Throwing Program, Return Still Distant
Atlanta's Spencer Strider has begun a throwing program, a positive step away from surgery but not a sign he's close to returning.
Strider Cleaned Out Locker, Not Expected Back This Season
Beat reporter confirms Strider's locker has been cleared and given to Mahle, strongly implying Strider is done for the year.
Schwellenbach's Return Timeline Slipping Away for Atlanta
The Braves righty began his throwing program in June but remains far from game action, with a rehab assignment still weeks away at best.
Strider Unlikely to Return in 2025, Begins Throwing Program
Braves manager Walt Weiss indicated he cannot count on Strider pitching this year, though a throwing program start offers some hope for 2026.
Chris Sale Ejected During Game After Balk Dispute Carries Over
Atlanta's ace was tossed from the game, with lingering tension from a balk ruling the day before cited as the backdrop.