The Braves on Thursday outrighted David Fletcher to Triple-A Gwinnett.
The move clears the way for the team to reinstate Ozzie Albies (fractured toe) from the 10-day injured list Friday ahead of the series opener with Cleveland. Twice this week, Braves manager Brian Snitker said Albies probably could’ve played if he were eligible to do so.
But after hitting the injured list April 16, his 10 days won’t be up until Friday. It appears he’ll miss the minimum amount of time, which is the best-case scenario after he was hit by a pitch in the April 15 series opener versus the Astros.
In the days leading to this, Albies has worked out on the field and has taken batting practice. He’s also run the bases. He’s moving around well.
Fletcher went 2-for-8 with two RBIs in Albies’ absence. Fletcher split time with Luis Guillorme.
Fletcher is staying in the organization. He had an advance consent in his contract to be assigned to Triple A, and he’ll soon appear for Gwinnett again. Had he elected free agency, he would’ve forfeited the remaining amount of money on an extension he signed with the Angels in 2021. (Heading into this year, Fletcher was owed $14 million through next season.)
Fletcher has five years of Major League service, which gives him the right to reject any outright assignment and be released. Except in this case, he signed the advance consent form, which allows the Braves to send him to the minor leagues instead of releasing him.
On Friday, the Braves will get back their All-Star second baseman.
