The Braves have plenty of shortcomings, but pinch-hitting options aren’t currently among them.
Jace Peterson, bouncing between Triple-A Gwinnett and Atlanta, has flown under the radar as a pinch-hitter. With his double against the Marlins on Sunday, the utilityman is hitting .417 (5-for-12) as a pinch-hitter.
Outfielder Lane Adams, another of the team’s featured pinch-hitters, is batting .286 (8-for-30) in spot plate appearances. He hit in back-to-back games for the first time in his career on Friday and Saturday, doubling twice.
Adams is 4-for-10 with two doubles, four RBIs and three runs in his last 12 trips to the plate.
Peterson was recalled Saturday when utilityman Sean Rodriguez was traded to the Pirates. Peterson’s in his fourth stint in the majors this season, while Adams is in his third.
“I’m just looking to help the team and whenever my number’s called just go out and do something positive,” Peterson said. “Can’t really control what happens after you swing it, but I’m just making sure my approach is right. I’m not always going to be able to get a hit, but just making sure my approach is right and letting the rest happen.”
Peterson’s started 29 games in 2017, appearing in 43. On May 18, he became the first National League player to make a start at each infield position. He’s also made nine appearances in left field.
He said he’s grown more comfortable in the role this season. Peterson has hits in his last three pinch-hitting chances.
“I think this year is when I’ve done the majority of my learning with that job,” Peterson said. “Last year a little bit. But it’s just a mindset, going up there and making sure you’re doing your work and being ready.”
Peterson and Adams homered in the same game July 15, helping the Braves to a series win over the Diamondbacks.
Braves pinch-hitters lead the majors with 33 RBIs. Peterson and Adams have combined for 19 of those (58 percent).
