The Braves gave two regulars a breather for Thursday’s matinee against the Phillies, perhaps a needed break after the offense has sputtered.
Third baseman Josh Donaldson and shortstop Dansby Swanson had rare off days. Donaldson hadn’t been off since May 22 in San Francisco, a fact he takes pride in.
“That was one of my big goals this year,” said Donaldson, who battled injuries the past two seasons. “To come back and be able to do that. Early on, it was about making sure I got out of spring training healthy. Then it was the first month or so just trying to make sure I’m allowing my body to get some recovery. … To be able to go out there, play and help my team win, there’s not much more I get enjoyment out of.”
Swanson has struggled at the plate since returning from the injured list. Since Aug. 26, when he came back from a heel injury, he’s hit .156/.299/.203 with three extra-base hits and six RBIs.
That’s created a disappointing finish for Swanson, who was enjoying the best season of his young career before being sidelined. Thursday was his first day off since he came off the IL.
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