The Braves’ season began with Jarred Kelenic starting against right-handed pitchers and Adam Duvall facing lefties. However, after Acuña’s season-ending injury, Duvall took on an everyday role, while Kelenic started consistently regardless of the pitcher. Kelenic responded well, hitting .240 against same-sided pitchers and showing power across the field. In contrast, Duvall’s performance declined.
As of Tuesday, Duvall has been fulfilling his role with a .275/.393/.565 slash line, six homers, 16 RBI, and a .958 OPS. Unfortunately, his overall performance has been disappointing.
Duvall’s statistics reveal his struggles:
– .169 batting average ranks 233rd
– .253 on-base percentage ranks 222nd
– .310 slugging percentage ranks 217th
– 61 wRC+ tied for 223rd
– .255 wOBA ranks 222nd
– –0.2 fWAR tied for 210th
Against righties, Duvall’s performance is dismal, with a .081/.122/.105/.227 line, ranking last in all categories.
Defensively, Duvall is also below par, with negative metrics in right and left field.
Given these issues, the Braves have options to replace Duvall. They could keep him for left-handed matchups and use Brian Anderson against right-handers. Anderson has performed well in Triple-A and has a reverse split that complements Duvall. Alternatively, they could seek a left-handed bat for platooning since Kelenic is now the everyday center fielder.
Forrest Wall is another option, with strong stats in Triple-A and a good start with the Braves, driving in a key run recently.
The Braves’ lineup is improving, and while Orlando Arcia’s defense justifies his inconsistent bat, keeping Duvall for lefties adds another weak spot. Duvall historically needs regular playing time to be effective, which he wouldn’t get in a limited role.
Duvall has had key moments for the Braves but has been inconsistent and is now 35, with limited playing time since 2018. The Braves seem to be hoping he improves before the trade deadline, but betting on that outcome seems unlikely.
