The Atlanta Braves made a strategic move to bolster their outfield on Thursday by adding veteran Alex Verdugo to their active roster, just four weeks after signing him as a free agent. In a corresponding move, Bryan De La Cruz was optioned to Triple-A Gwinnett, paving the way for Verdugo to join the major league squad.
At 28 years old, Verdugo brings a wealth of experience to the Braves’ outfield. Although he wasn’t signed until late in spring training, he quickly got up to speed with a brief stint at Gwinnett, playing nine games where he posted a .207 batting average, a double, two home runs, and four RBIs. While his time in Triple-A wasn’t exactly dazzling, Verdugo’s track record in the big leagues speaks for itself.
Last season with the New York Yankees, he slashed a .233 batting average with a .647 OPS, hitting 13 home runs and driving in 61 RBIs over 149 games. His performance in the postseason was a bit underwhelming, though, as he batted .208 with one home run and eight RBIs in 14 playoff games. Notably, he struck out to end the 2024 World Series, as the Los Angeles Dodgers claimed the championship.
Despite those struggles, Verdugo has established himself as a solid major leaguer over his career, boasting a .272 batting average and .742 OPS with 70 home runs and 316 RBIs across 800 career games. He’s played for both the Los Angeles Dodgers (2017-2019) and the Boston Red Sox (2020-2023), in addition to his short time with the Yankees. His combination of power, experience, and versatility will add depth to the Braves’ lineup, providing a much-needed boost as they look to maintain their dominance in the National League.
On the other hand, Bryan De La Cruz has struggled to find his rhythm in Atlanta. The 28-year-old outfielder is batting just .191 in 16 games this season, with only one extra-base hit. Over the course of his career with the Miami Marlins, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Braves, De La Cruz holds a .251 batting average with 58 home runs and 208 RBIs in 491 games. The Braves are hoping that a stint in Triple-A will help him regain his form.
With Verdugo now on the active roster, the Braves are hoping his veteran presence and consistent bat can make an impact as the season progresses.