Without Ozzie Albies, the Braves aim to complete a series sweep against the Astros.
Field Level Media reported on 4/17/24 that despite a recent injury, Atlanta Braves second baseman Ozzie Albies remained upbeat. Albies was placed on the 10-day injured list after fracturing his right big toe when hit by a pitch during the series opener against the Houston Astros. He continued to play in that game and later discovered the injury when removing his cleats.
With Albies out, the Braves aim to sweep the Astros in their three-game series. Albies mentioned having fouled a couple of pitches off the same foot over the weekend but noted that the pain from a previous broken foot was worse. He hopes to return as soon as he feels better.
In Albies’ absence, veteran David Fletcher was chosen to fill his spot on the active roster. Left-hander Max Fried is set to start the series finale for the Braves, coming off a quality start against the Miami Marlins. He faces Houston’s right-hander J.P. France, who has struggled in his recent starts.
Despite the Astros’ 6-2 loss on Tuesday, right-hander Hunter Brown showed improvement, pitching into the seventh inning and allowing only two runs. Manager Joe Espada praised Brown for pitching effectively to both sides of the plate and keeping hitters uncomfortable.
