With Dansby Swanson ailing, Johan Camargo returns to the Braves’ regular lineup.
Camargo, the young super utilityman, will fill in at shortstop in Swanson’s absence. Swanson was placed on the 10-day disabled list with left wrist inflammation Friday.
After bursting onto the scene last season, Camargo entering spring training the favorite to start at third base. But he opened the season on the DL with side and back discomfort.
Camargo returned 16 games later. Ryan Flaherty was among the National League’s best hitters while starting at third, and the third-base gig now belongs to veteran Jose Bautista.
While Camargo likely will operate as a utilityman for the remainder of the season, his best value comes in situations such as the present. He’s capable of replacing anyone in the infield, and manager Brian Snitker expressed confidence in Camargo’s ability to handle a corner outfield spot if needed.
“He’s a real talented guy, and we’re fortunate to have him,” Snitker said. “The depth there, you can never have too many middle infielders. You can take those guys and put them anywhere on the diamond. The experience he got last year, shame he got hurt this spring, but I have 100 percent confidence in throwing him out there to play short. That’s something you can’t say about a lot of guys.”
Camargo, still 24-years-young, doesn’t draw the attention of Ozzie Albies or Ronald Acuna. But the Braves see Camargo providing long-term value, especially in his utility role.
Camargo’s hit .280 in 25 at-bats, with two homers and nine RBIs. Snitker feels the best is yet to come.
“He does something to help you win, which is a nice trait for a guy to have,” he said. “I see him as a kid who’s going to continue to get better. I don’t know that we’ve seen the best of him. He goes to winter ball every year and gets that experience. That’s helped him the last couple years a lot. He’s a kid with a really high upside.”
