Latest Braves News: Why Michael Harris II Deserves a Quick Return to the Lineup

The Atlanta Braves fell to the Philadelphia Phillies 2-1 on Sunday, with Michael Harris II observing from the dugout after receiving a two-day rest. Despite being hitless in his last 19 at-bats and sidelined in the lineup since the Braves' significant loss to the Phillies on June 27, there is considerable discussion about his role. Manager Brian Snitker expressed he intended to have Harris return for Tuesday’s game against the Los Angeles Angels. Eli White, who took over center-field duties in Harris's absence, recorded an 0-3 performance. Although Harris's batting average is perilously close to dipping below .200, remaining steady at .212, he boasts 43 RBI and six home runs. His stellar defensive skills have notably preserved runs for Atlanta this season, emphasizing the importance of reintegrating him into the lineup as quickly as possible. Harris holds an eight-year, $72 million contract extension he signed in 2022.