The Braves’ pinch-hitting numbers continue to improve.
With Lane Adams’ two ninth-inning RBIs against the Mets on Saturday, the Braves have 46 pinch-hit RBIs. That’s the team’s most since 1987 (50).
The total falls short of the 53 in 1986, which is considered the team record since at least 1974.
The Braves’ nine pinch-hit homers lead the majors this season.
Adams has been a major reason for the success off the bench. His success as a situational player has earned him more playing time. He walked off against the Marlins last week, collected three hits against the Nationals on Wednesday and produced the game-winning sacrifice fly against the Mets on Friday.
“He’s been a nice little weapon to have,” Braves manager Brian Snitker said. “Speed, he’s not scared on the bases. The thing the guy does, you pinch-hit him and he comes up and gives three good wacks and gives himself a chance. He’s done a really good job all year in those situational roles. Coming off the bench, he’s always ready.”
Adams has 12 of the 46 pinch-hit RBIs. He’s 12-for-43 overall as a pinch-hitter and hitting .333 with a .400 OBP with runners in scoring position.
“Just trying to be prepared,” Adams said. “I do a lot of video work, especially with our analytics guy. He has heat maps he brings to me every day where every pitcher goes, where they throw their pitches in the zone. Just try to be ready. You never know, especially in the National League. The strategy changes with each batter.”
