The Braves are optimistic as shortstop Dansby Swanson and outfielder Austin Riley continue their rehabs.
Swanson, sidelined with an injured heel, worked with third base coach Ron Washington in the field Thursday. He’s started hitting, but has yet to run the bases and participate in more athletic drills, according to manager Brian Snitker.
The 25-year-old has missed 20 games after the initial thought was he’d only require a few days to recover. The Braves have sorely missed him, especially on defense, while using a combination of Charlie Culberson and Johan Camargo at shortstop.
Riley, meanwhile, has a partially torn lateral cruciate ligament in his right knee. The Braves received good news earlier this week when it was confirmed their rookie wouldn’t need surgery. Riley is expected to be ready for rehab games in a couple weeks.
“Austin’s swelling is going down,” Snitker said. “He looks good. They just want to make sure all that swelling is out before he starts getting out there.”
