Until Friday night, most Braves fans probably knew of new infielder Jace Peterson only through secondhand accounts of his exploits during the Grapefruit League.
They finally got a first-hand look at Peterson when he made his Turner Field debut in the home opener and he promptly made a key play in the 5-3 victory over the Mets.
Peterson, pinch-running for Chris Johnson in the eighth inning, sidestepped a tag attempt by third baseman David Wright on Andrelton Simmons’ grounder. Simmons went to second on the play and two batters later Phil Gosselin scored Peterson and Simmons with a two-out, two-RBI single.
“There is more than one way to get to third,” Peterson said. “When that third baseman leaves the base and charges the ball or whether he goes back, if it’s open I’m going to take it. That’s something we work on and you’ve just got to trust your instincts.”
The play showcased the speed, hustle and awareness that Peterson showed throughout the spring. He was one of the surprise standouts in camp after he came to the Braves from the Padres in the Justin Upton trade.
Peterson, 24, started the first three games of the regular season at second base. Gosselin started there Friday but Peterson was back in the lineup on Saturday.
Peterson got a taste of the big leagues while playing 27 games (18 starts) with the Padres in 2014. He hit just .113 with 18 strikeouts in 58 at-bats but now has a chance to play a regular role with the Braves.
“It’s been great, man,” Peterson said. “I want to play ball. I like being in there every day. And when I’m not, I’m going to do what I can to be a good teammate and do what I can. Like (Friday) night, coming in and pinch running, there are so many things you can do to contribute to a win. I think every guy in this locker room knows that and as long as guys keep that mindset, we will be fine.”
