When the Atlanta Braves signed Jurickson Profar this offseason, they expected him to bolster the middle of their lineup and provide much-needed depth. Instead, the switch-hitting outfielder was suspended for using performance-enhancing drugs and has missed half the season.
In Profar’s absence, Braves left fielders have underperformed, and the middle of the lineup has struggled all year. Although manager Brian Snitker had previously announced where Profar would hit upon his return, that plan may change now that Matt Olson has been moved to the second spot in the order. As a result, Profar will probably slot lower in the lineup.
Predicting the Braves’ Lineup with Profar Back
Snitker could stick to his original plan and bat Profar behind Ronald Acuña Jr. once Profar is eligible to return. However, it’s just as likely he keeps Acuña and Olson—his two most reliable hitters—at the top of the lineup.
Marcell Ozuna has slumped through June, and Austin Riley has been inconsistent, creating an opportunity for Profar to bat third. Last season, Profar was productive in that role with the Padres, posting a .304/.406/.440 slash line from the three-hole. Given Snitker’s history of relying on stats with limited predictive value, Profar could very well take that spot.
If Profar hits third, the rest of the lineup might look like this:
- Ronald Acuña Jr. (RF)
- Matt Olson (1B)
- Jurickson Profar (LF)
- Marcell Ozuna (DH)
- Austin Riley (3B)
- Drake Baldwin / Sean Murphy (C)
- Ozzie Albies (2B)
- Michael Harris II (CF)
- Nick Allen (SS)
This revised lineup won’t fix all of the Braves’ offensive issues, but it should provide a stronger top half and better production from left field than they’ve had all season.
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