Braves Facing Tough Decision as Key Players Heat Up – Who Will Lose Their Spot When Acuña Returns?

The Atlanta Braves appear to have a “good problem” on their hands as they head into the season. At the start of the offseason, the biggest concern for the team was their outfield. The only move made by Alex Anthopoulos was signing Jurickson Profar, with the expectation that Jarred Kelenic and Bryan De La Cruz could platoon until Ronald Acuña Jr. returned.

However, things didn’t go as planned. Profar was suspended for PED use, leaving the outfield in disarray. Michael Harris II struggled, and Kelenic and De La Cruz were sent back to the minors. The Braves found themselves in a tough spot again—until unexpected heroes emerged.

Eli White and Alex Verdugo have provided major contributions to the Braves’ success. White has enjoyed the longest stretch of sustained success in his career, while Verdugo has made a strong comeback after a down 2024 season with the Yankees. Their performances have directly impacted Atlanta’s victories, and as Acuña’s return approaches, Ken Rosenthal suggests the team may soon face a tough decision about their outfield.

Acuña will obviously take his place in right field when healthy, and Michael Harris II’s role as the everyday center fielder is secure, despite an early-season slump. That leaves one spot open in left field, where White and Verdugo have made things more difficult than expected. With Profar suspended and Kelenic in the minors, these two journeymen have stepped up.

Verdugo, in particular, has outperformed Profar over their careers, and while White’s hot start may eventually cool off, Verdugo’s solid track record suggests he might eventually come out on top. The Braves might consider a platoon system, with White facing left-handed pitchers and Verdugo playing against right-handers, though White’s numbers against righties this season are better than expected.

With a career OPS of .782 against righties, Verdugo has the edge, but White’s strong performance this season, especially against right-handed pitchers, makes the decision tougher. As the season progresses, it could come down to which player is in better form, and Braves manager Brian Snitker may end up going with the hot hand in left field.