DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: NL East—ATL needs more from leadoff spot
Jul 3 2013
A lack of production from the leadoff spot continues to be one of the biggest issues facing the Braves. Entering play on July 2, the team had a paltry .243/.303/.367 with 7 HR and 12 SB from its leadoff spot. That .303 OBP ranks them 29th in MLB in that category (only the Mariners, Mets, Marlins and Twins have been worse.)
Andrelton Simmons (SS, ATL), the team’s primary leadoff hitter so far this season, has produced a .218/.254/.310 with 3 HR and 5 SB when batting first. Manager Fredi Gonzalez has utilized others, mainly Jordan Schafer (OF, ATL) and B.J. Upton (OF, ATL) in that role at times this season, but keeps coming back to Simmons. But one has to wonder if a change might come soon.
As we’ve discussed here before,...
Almost!
You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!
Already a subscriber? Sign in here
More From PT Tomorrow
This week, we take a close look at Kyle Karros's impressive June, check in on a catching prospect in San Fran, and welcome back a few old friends.
Jul 4 2026 3:06am
Jul 4 2026 3:06am
The Reds may use a six-man rotation when Greene returns
Jul 3 2026 3:05am
Jul 3 2026 3:05am
Josh Lowe has returned from AAA and appears to be ready to take over the CF job in Anaheim.
Jul 1 2026 3:07am
Jul 1 2026 3:07am
Trent Grisham's looming return could remove either Spencer Jones or Jasson Domínguez from the Yankees' outfield. Plus, a new look infield in BOS, Dean Kremer nearing a return for BAL, and more.
Jun 30 2026 3:05am
Jun 30 2026 3:05am
This week, we discuss the return of Heliot Ramos to a crowded lineup situation in San Francisco, and the playing time outlook for prospects throughout the NL West.
Jun 27 2026 3:06am
Jun 27 2026 3:06am
