Here’s how the Braves will line up to kick off this four game set against the Dodgers:
There are a few notable things in this lineup. First, and foremost in hilarity, is that Whit Merrifield is back in the lineup despite suffering something akin to a fractured foot. The reporting was that he “could” return for the series against the Dodgers, and now that series is upon us, and Whit Merrifield, broken foot and all, is in the lineup and hitting ninth. I know it’s Friday the 13th and all, but “starting guy with broken foot” is the wrong kind of scary for this team at this time.
Also notable: Ramon Laureano gets another start against a right-handed pitcher. Jarred Kelenic has effectively lost his starting spot, platoon advantage or no, though it’s hard to feel too badly for him given that it was largely a consequence of his own making.
Travis d’Arnaud is also back after a few days of paternity leave. I feel kinda bad for him; I just returned to work after three months of paternity leave, and his union-bargained contract gives him three days.
The Dodgers will roll out mostly familiar faces:
The bottom of this lineup is actually fairly soft (Will Smith’s .327 xwOBA is the highest in the last four spots), but the top is terrifying, so good luck with that, Spencer Schwellenbach and his recent struggles.
