Verdugo Shines in 2nd Game as Braves’ Leadoff Hitter

ATLANTA — With a fresh start in Atlanta, Alex Verdugo’s performance has given a much-needed boost to his team. After being called up earlier this week, Verdugo has already been a catalyst for the Braves, even if he hesitates to take full credit for their recent success.

In Saturday night’s thrilling 4-3 victory over the Minnesota Twins, Verdugo, taking on the role of leadoff hitter and starting left fielder, pointed the way with his impressive four hits and two runs scored. These efforts have energized the Braves’ offensive lineup that hasn’t been this successful back-to-back until now. Verdugo’s offensive contributions included two doubles, and a pivotal sixth-inning single that pushed the go-ahead run across the plate.

Reflecting on his quick integration into the team, Verdugo commented, “It feels good to be placed at the top of the lineup and to be able to make an impact right away. Being able to get on base and have productive at-bats is a great start.”

Verdugo’s impact has been immediate following his recall on Thursday, addressing a struggling offense after he joined the team on a $1.5 million, one-year contract concluded this March. Following Saturday’s win, Braves’ manager, Brian Snitker expressed satisfaction with Verdugo’s arrival, emphasizing that the team was eager to benefit from his consistent and professional at-bats.

With Verdugo joining the squad, Bryan De La Cruz was reassigned to Triple-A Gwinnett. So far, Verdugo has seamlessly slotted into left field alongside Michael Harris II in center and Jarred Kelenic in right. The left-handed batter boasts a career average of .272, and while awaiting Ronald Acuña Jr.’s return from ACL surgery aimed for May, Verdugo’s role might remain crucial for the Braves.

Though last year, the 28-year-old Verdugo hit .233 with 13 home runs and 61 RBIs for the New York Yankees following four productive years with Boston, he has come into this season with the hopes of making a noticeable impact with Atlanta. His past season showed a base salary of $8.7 million, coupled with performance incentives aimed at plate appearances.

Manager Snitker expects Verdugo’s disciplined approach at the plate to influence and uplift the performance of other batters in their lineup. His outlook was shared by teammate Michael Harris II who remarked, “He gives a lot of information from his first at-bat. It’s helpful as a fellow left-handed batter.”