## Braves’ Ozzie Albies Making Swift Progress from Fractured Toe, Potential Return Set for This Week
Per David O’Brien of The Athletic, Ozzie Albies of the Atlanta Braves has started swinging the bat and could make his return from the 10-day injured list as early as Friday, the first day he’s eligible. However, if he’s not quite ready by then, his return is expected to follow shortly after.
Albies suffered a fractured right toe after being hit by a pitch a week ago. In his absence, Luis Guillorme and David Fletcher have been covering second base for the Braves.
The news of Albies’ progress comes as a positive development, especially after he was spotted without a protective walking boot on Sunday. This indicates a strong chance of him making his return later this week.
## Albies’ Injury History and Impact on Braves
Albies has a concerning injury history, having landed on the injured list in four of the last five seasons. His first significant injury occurred in 2016 while playing for Double-A Mississippi, where he fractured his elbow while taking a swing late in the season.
In 2020, Albies missed half of the COVID-shortened season due to a right wrist bone bruise. He then fractured his left foot during a swing in the 2022 season, causing him to miss the postseason that year.
Albies’ absence has undoubtedly affected the Braves, who are already without Spencer Strider (season-ending elbow surgery) and Sean Murphy (oblique strain). The loss of three key contributors simultaneously has put the team in a challenging position.
## David Fletcher’s Role in Albies’ Absence
David Fletcher, who has provided depth for the Braves, has been filling in for Albies. He has played multiple positions, including the three infield positions to the left of first base and the outfield corners.
Fletcher’s strength lies in his defense, but he employs a contact-oriented approach at the plate. During the shortened 2020 season, he had an impressive performance, hitting .319/.376/.425. After that season, he received a five-year extension from the Los Angeles Angels.
However, Fletcher’s production declined in subsequent seasons. Over his career, he has hit .277/.323/.359, and since the 2020 season, his numbers have dropped further, to .259/.296/.327.
The Angels twice attempted to waive Fletcher last year, but no other team claimed him. As a result, he became a free agent. When he joined the Braves, he was outrighted off the roster after being acquired.
Nonetheless, Albies’ injury created an opening for Fletcher to return to the majors. If he is removed from the roster again and clears waivers, he has the option to become a free agent without losing money on his contract.
