ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – Atlanta Braves manager Walt Weiss was thrilled Tuesday to pencil Drake Baldwin back into his usual spot in the lineup ahead of the team’s series opener against the San Francisco Giants.
“(It feels) really good. I think we’ve done a really good job in his absence,” Weiss said, nonetheless highlighting the importance of Baldwin’s return. “(Baldwin’s) a name that moves the needle offensively… an impact guy.”
Baldwin, who landed on the 10-day injured list May 19 with a strained oblique suffered the previous night, returns to a Braves lineup that entered the season as one of baseball’s best but has posted the third-worst OPS in the majors over the past two weeks.
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Before his injury, Baldwin was batting .303 with 13 home runs, 38 RBIs and a .932 OPS in 48 games. He currently leads National League catchers in All-Star Game voting.
“Good to be in this locker room,” Baldwin said. “Knowing I’m playing today and can help the team win is definitely a good feeling.”
Baldwin played one rehab game with the Gwinnett Stripers, homering in his third plate appearance. He was scheduled to play again on Sunday, but the game was rained out. Even so, the swing on his home run felt good and convinced him he was ready to be reinstated.
Atlanta’s series opener against San Francisco on Tuesday will be broadcast live on Gray Media. First pitch is scheduled for 7:15 p.m.
The Giants enter the series with baseball’s best OPS over the past 30 days, though they sit fourth in the NL West with a 29-43 record. Right-hander Adrian Houser is set to start for San Francisco, while Grant Holmes will take the mound for Atlanta on Tuesday.
“On paper, they’re way better than what their record is,” Weiss said of San Francisco. “You look at that lineup, and it’s a scary lineup. There are some dangerous hitters in that lineup. We’re not taking anything for granted because of their record. They’re a talented team.”
How to watch Braves on Gray
The Braves and Gray Media will simulcast 25 games for free, over-the-air to fans across Braves Country through local television stations, reaching 26 markets throughout the Southeast.
For broadcast times, channel information and additional details, fans are encouraged to click here and check local Gray Media station listings in their markets.
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