The injury-rattled season for the Atlanta Braves continued today as their newest free agent signee, veteran infielder/outfielder Whit Merrifield, was injured during pregame activities when he took a baseball off his finger.
Multiple reports, including from MLB.com’s Rick Farlow, indicated that X-rays taken by the team were negative and Merrifield is day-to-day.
Merrifield was signed after second baseman Ozzie Albies was injured while attempting to make a tag at second base during yesterday’s loss to the Cardinals. Albies, who was since diagnosed with a fractured wrist, is expected to miss at least eight weeks.
The Braves called up prospect Nacho Alvarez, Jr. from Triple-A Gwinnett and inserted him in the line-up today.
Merrifield, who started this season with the Philadelphia Phillies before being released by the club, is expected to provide depth to an Atlanta squad ravaged by injuries. Merrifield is a three-time All-Star, including last season with Toronto.
“Can’t make it up.”
Whit Merrifield arrived in Atlanta today after being signed to help cover injuries … then he gets injured taking a ball off a finger on his throwing hand while warming up. pic.twitter.com/b514rYkZ5j
— Bally Sports South (@BallySportsSO) July 22, 2024
As Braves manager Brian Snitker said, “Can’t make it up.”
