Braves Call Up Alex Verdugo, Hoping to Ignite Offense

July 22, 2024; Bronx, NY; Alex Verdugo (right) celebrates with Anthony Volpe (11), during a 9-1 win over the Tampa Bay Rays, on Monday, July 22, 2024. (Photo By Charles Mays)

In a move aimed at jumpstarting a sluggish offense, the Atlanta Braves have recalled outfielder Alex Verdugo from Triple-A Gwinnett and optioned Bryan De La Cruz in a corresponding roster move.

Verdugo, 28, will be making his 2025 Major League debut with the Braves after spending last season with the New York Yankees. In nine games at Triple-A this season, Verdugo posted a .207 average with six hits, including one double and two home runs. He also recorded four RBIs and crossed the plate eight times in 29 at-bats.

While those numbers might not jump off the page, the Braves are looking for a spark. The team tied a franchise record with 19 strikeouts in Wednesday’s loss to the Toronto Blue Jays, a clear sign that the offense is in need of a shakeup.

Across his MLB career, Verdugo has been a steady contributor, owning a .272 batting average with 70 home runs, 316 RBIs, and 409 runs scored. Verdugo brings veteran experience and a left-handed bat to the lineup, and Atlanta hopes he can provide some stability in the outfield while contributing at the plate. Known for his contact-first approach and competitive at-bats, Verdugo could be just what the Braves need to shift the momentum.

Atlanta opens a new series tomorrow at home against the Minnesota Twins, and all eyes will be on Verdugo as he makes his return to the majors in a Braves uniform.