With Michael Harris eligible to come off the IL for tonight’s game, the Braves had a roster decision to make regarding their outfield depth. Some expected them to designate one of Ramon Laureano or Adam Duvall for assignment to make room for the star centerfielder, but instead, they went the safe route, optioning Eli White to Gwinnett.
The #Braves today returned OF Michael Harris II from his rehabilitation assignment and reinstated him from the injured list, and optioned OF Eli White to Triple-A Gwinnett. To make room on the 40-man roster, Atlanta designated RHP Parker Dunshee for assignment.
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) August 14, 2024
There’s certainly an argument for Eli White to remain on the roster. He’s just as good of an offensive player as Duvall or Laureano and brings more to the table defensively and on the basepaths. However, Duvall and Laureano don’t have options. The Braves would have had to let one of them go, and they clearly didn’t feel comfortable doing so.
It may not be what’s best for the team right now, but Eli White was never going to see much of the field with Harris back in the fold, and who can blame the Braves for being cautious? They’ve been ravaged by injuries this season. Keeping Duvall and Laureano around for now is a wise decision, but the Braves could feel differently in the not-too-distant future if both players continue to struggle.
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Photo: David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire
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