The Braves are adding a three-time Gold Glove winner to their bench. And while Ender Inciarte started Thursday, his first day back from a lengthy stint on the injured list, he’s ticketed for a fourth-outfielder role.
Inciarte missed 54 games with a lumbar strain. He first felt back stiffness during the Braves’ series in Los Angeles in early May, and it grew worse when he played a ball in the gap and hurried a throw to second base in the ensuing series in Phoenix.
After an off-day, Inciarte aggravated his back while sliding into second. It necessitated time on the IL, in which Inciarte endured an extended rehab process that included a pair of setbacks.
“There was so much pain I couldn’t even walk,” Inciarte said, recalling his slide. “As time went on, I couldn’t even breathe. Couldn’t even cough. It was bad.”
When Inciarte was shelved, the Braves were down 2-1/2 games in the National League East. They’ve since surged atop the standings, boasting the NL’s best offense and second-best record.
Rookie Austin Riley, a natural third baseman, was promoted to man left field, shifting Ronald Acuna to center, in Inciarte’s absence. Riley had a historic start that has the slugger on pace for about 35 home runs despite his late struggles, though his batting average is only .203 over the past 41 of the 55 games he has played in since his call-up in mid-May.
Riley’s success immediately summoned questions about Inciarte’s future, especially given the latter was in the midst of an underwhelming season. Inciarte hit .218/.300/.323 across 40 games before the injury.
The Braves’ plan, which remains fluid, is to have Inciarte as the fourth outfielder. Inciarte could also provide value as a late-inning defensive substitute and pinch-runner. For now, the Braves will employ a seven-man bullpen and deeper bench.
“Just filling in,” manager Brian Snitker said. “We’ll play him (Thursday), at some point give Ronald a day off. Gave Austin a day off (Thursday). I’m not going to feel like I’m forced to get him in. We’ll see how it works out.”
Inciarte’s return would’ve been mandated this weekend, because of MLB rules that don’t permit a rehab assignment extending beyond 20 days for position players. The team considered bringing him back in Milwaukee but elected against him traveling.
While the Braves embarked on a 10-game road slate to close June, Inciarte visited the team’s facilities in North Port, Florida, where he worked out without complications and was deemed ready for a rehab assignment.
Inciarte noted that when he could slide into bases without pain, he knew he could return to game action. He played 13 games on his rehab assignment, which included three minor-league levels, and hit .205 with one double and one RBI.
He said his swing is feeling more comfortable than earlier in the year and his timing is back. Inciarte has also changed his routine, noting he’s trying to stretch more before and after practices and games.
His return bolsters the Braves’ defense and speed. Inciarte hasn’t been informed how the Braves intent to use him, but he understands his immediate role is to answer when called upon.
“It’s good to have options on the team,” Inciarte said. “I don’t know how they’ll be playing it but I’m here whenever they need me. I’ll be ready to play. I’m just glad I’m healthy and back.”
