The Braves are off to a slow start record-wise, but it’s Spring Training and that simply does not matter. What does matter is that several bats in our system are showing glimpses of promise in the early part of camp, both at the major league level and across the minors. Let’s take a look at several guys who have hit well in the early going thus far.
Ozzie Albies
6-for-10, 1 HR, 4 RBI
Albies clearly looks 100% after his season-ending injury last summer. His incredible contact bat has drawn comparisons to a young Rafael Furcal, and his talent is translated against major league pitching in camp. Albies and Dansby Swanson both look like guys who can coast throughout the minor league levels relatively fast, and could hit the MLB club as soon as next season.
Mallex Smith
5-for-11, 1 2B, 1 3B, 1 HR, 4 RBI
If Albies is a young Rafael Furcal, Mallex Smith is a young Kenny Lofton. I am on the record as listing Smith as my favorite prospect in the system, and he has shown Braves fans just why I’m so impressed by the speedster. He showcased this speed when he logged two triples in the same frame last week. So far, he has been the most impressive player in camp. He should hit the big league team this season, and has the potential to be one of the best leadoff men in the MLB.
Emilio Bonifacio
5-for-10, 1 2B
Bonifacio is nothing more than just a backup, but he has looked good so far this spring. If he can hit for a decent average, his versatility will make him a very valuable asset off our bench.
Ender Inciarte
5-for-12, 1 2B
Our new starting centerfielder has carried his solid contact bat down to Orlando. Inciarte is making a very solid case to be Atlanta’s opening day leadoff hitter.
Hector Olivera
7-for-16, 3 RBI
Braves fans have been painfully impatient with the Cuban slugger Olivera. I think he will be an impact bat for our team this season, and he has shown glimpses of that this Spring. I can’t wait to see him prove the haters wrong in 2016.