Braves second baseman Ozzie Albies singled in the first inning Tuesday, his 184th hit, setting a record for most single-season knocks by a Braves second baseman.
Felix Millan had 183 hits in 1970. Albies tied that total Sunday and surpassed it with his hit off Royals left-hander Danny Duffy.
The switch-hitter went on to double and homer in the 9-6 loss to the Royals, bringing his total to 186. He also scored his 100th run.
“I’m just trusting myself,” Albies said. “I’m being positive and working hard.”
Albies’ 186 hits ranks second in the National League, trailing Arizona’s Ketel Marte (187). Marte is out for the season, giving Albies the opportunity to become the fifth Atlanta-era Brave to lead the league in hits, joining Freddie Freeman (2018), Terry Pendleton (1991, 1992), Ralph Garr (1974) and Felipe Alou (1966, 1968).
If Albies does so, the Braves would be the first National League team to have consecutive hit leaders since the 2005-06 Cubs, who had Derek Lee and Juan Pierre achieve the feat.
“What a year that kid’s had,” manager Brian Snitker said. “It’s amazing. I was looking up there today and his year, what a phenomenal year he’s had.”
