Jorge Soler tests positive for COVID-19, removed from Braves’ NLDS roster
Braves slugger Jorge Soler was removed from the team’s National League Division Series roster Tuesday after testing positive for COVID-19, MLB announced. Outfielder Cristian Pache replaced him on the roster.
Soler, the Braves’ leadoff man, was 1-for-11 with a double in the series. The Braves entered Tuesday with a 2-1 lead over the Brewers in the NLDS. They’d advance to the NL Championship Series with a victory in Game 4 on Tuesday afternoon.
The Braves altered their lineup in Soler’s absence, moving shortstop Dansby Swanson to leadoff. Guillermo Heredia manned center field with Joc Pederson in right - Soler’s spot - and Adam Duvall in left field.
Pache, who will be used as a defensive replacement, was 4-for-22 in the postseason last year. He played in each of the seven games in 2020 NLCS against the Dodgers. Under MLB rules, Pache can remain on the roster until Soler is approved to be reinstated from the COVID-19 injured list.
About the Author
Gabriel Burns is a general assignment reporter and features writer for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. After four years on the Braves beat, he's expanded his horizons and covers all sports. You'll find him writing about MLB, NFL, NBA, college football and other Atlanta-centric happenings.
