Just two days after Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker controversially pinch-hit 2021 postseason standout Eddie Rosario for Eli White, the team’s front office made a move to prevent a similar situation — at least for now. On Friday, the Braves designated Rosario for assignment and called up utility man Luke Williams, who has previously spent time on the big-league roster over the past two seasons.
The Braves had re-signed Rosario recently to support the bench with a left-handed bat while giving Jarred Kelenic consistent playing time. However, Rosario only appeared in three games during this stint and went hitless in four at-bats.
Despite scoring a key run as a pinch-runner in a recent comeback win over the Reds, Rosario’s performance over the last three seasons — where he ranks among the bottom ten hitters (by wRC+) with at least 800 plate appearances — may have influenced the front office’s decision.
Williams hasn’t performed well offensively with the Triple-A Gwinnett Stripers, batting just .132 with a .350 OPS in 83 plate appearances. But his versatility and speed make him a more dynamic option off the bench. Unlike Rosario, Williams can play both infield and outfield positions and boasts a significantly faster sprint speed — 28.6 ft/sec compared to Rosario’s below-average 27.3 ft/sec.
With Stuart Fairchild already serving as a pinch-runner in several recent games, the Braves appear to be adding another speed and defense-oriented player in Williams. This move might also reflect the front office’s desire to prevent Snitker from substituting one of the league’s weakest bats in recent years for a red-hot hitter during key moments.
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