Ryan Flaherty has given the Braves more than they could’ve asked for through 21 games.
The Braves passed on investing in a third baseman in the offseason, in large part because of the presence of prospect Austin Riley. Johan Camargo, the presumed starter entering spring training, was slowed by injuries and placed on the disabled list before opening day.
Enter Flaherty, who the Braves signed to a one-year deal March 26, three days before the start of the season.
Flaherty has been arguably the team’s best hitter, leading the National League in average until an 0-for-4 on Monday dropped him from .362 to .339, fifth best in the senior circuit.
The looming arrival of Jose Bautista likely will push Flaherty back to his well-known utility role. But for now, the Braves are riding the hot hand.
Flaherty briefly spoke with The Atlanta Journal-Constitution before Monday’s game against the Reds.
Q. Seems a lot of guys on this team are off to surprising starts. Anything you can attribute that to?
A. It's early, two weeks in. I don't know. As far as me personally, not really anything different. I've just gotten to play pretty consistently, which has helped. But other than that, just trying to help this team win.
Q. You had a good spring with the Phillies, but didn't make the cut. You've already faced them six times. Any extra motivation there?
A. I don't think so. I met a lot of good people there. Spring training, they decided to do what they were going to do, and it opened up an opportunity for me here. So I'm fortunate.
Q. You're playing as well as you are, then see the team signs Bautista as a third baseman. What were your thoughts on that?
A. I haven't even really thought about it, to be honest with you.
Q. There are a lot of versatile guys here, you included. That's a product of where the game's trending?
A. Yeah, when I originally got an opportunity my first year in the big leagues, it was super utility. Before that, I really just played shortstop. My first year in Baltimore they played me in every position on the field. So fortunately it's prolonged my career.
