The Atlanta Braves have nothing to fear. But being ready is a good idea.
Despite the reports indicating that Ronald Acuña Jr.’s right knee soreness isn’t a chronic problem and he should be ready for Opening Day, the team is being cautious and sending him for additional testing. We can breathe a sigh of relief if Dr. Neil ElAttrache, the same physician who operated on athletes and performed his 2021 ACL surgery, gives the all-clear.
The Braves roster is ready for any player’s absence in the meantime, though. Ronald Acuña Jr. cannot be replaced, although if necessary, the roster can fill the innings. Let’s examine the Braves’ options:
The next man up may be J.P. Martínez.
Martínez was acquired by the organization late in January through a trade with the Texas Rangers, and he seems like a good backup outfield option should Ronald be sidelined for an extended period of time.
After just 82 games split between AA and AAA, the 27-year-old hit.297/.425/.538 with 14 home runs and 41 stolen bases, earning him the title of organizational All-Star for Texas last season. In the majors, he also had a brief taste of success, batting.225 in 17 games.
With the rise of talented outfielders Evan Carter and Wyatt Langford, who could play all three defensive positions, Martínez became a non-factor for the Rangers. Martínez was previously scheduled for a regular role in AAA Gwinnett, with the understanding that if Atlanta required another regular starter, he would likely be the first call-up.
Forrest Wall wants that job and is raking it in.
Wall has been dominating in spring training as he looks to prove he’s more than simply a “speed and defense” player. Wall played in 15 games with the major league team last season.
The 28-year-old, who is well-liked in the clubhouse and spent several months on the major league roster last season, appears to have an advantage against Martínez after working on his offensive with Braves hitting coaches during the winter.
With only 15 plate appearances, all from last season, Martínez’s lack of major league experience shouldn’t be a big deal, considering he has only played in 44 PAs with several organizations.
Is Eli White a possibility?