The Atlanta Braves signed Ramon Laureano at the end of May to help plug some of the holes at that time. The Braves had lost Ronald Acuna Jr. for the season and the Adam Duvall/Jarred Kelenic platoon came to an end as each player was forced into everyday duties.
Michael Harris II‘s injury ensured Laureano would have plenty of opportunities to show he could still play baseball.
Ramon Laureano has struggled the past few years
Laureano started 2024 with the Cleveland Guardians. In 31 games, he slashed just .143/.265/.229. The Guardians brought him in 2023 and hoped to recapture some of the success he had in his first two seasons. His production continued to decline.
Atlanta Braves and Laureano in the thick of Postseason hunt
Now, Laureano finds himself in a crucial role for the Atlanta Braves in the 2024 Postseason hunt. Last night, the Braves hosted the first-place Phillies with a big-fight feel.
The Braves entered the game just 1.5 games up on the Mets for the final Wild Card spot and 7.0 games back of the Phillies in the NL East.
Ramon Laureano was batting second and starting in right field for Atlanta against Zack Wheeler.
Ramon Laureano’s Impressive Stats since joining Atlanta Braves
Since joining the Braves, Laureano’s bat has been inspired to reach heights unreached in several years. In 34 games (three more than he played with Cleveland this year), Laureano has slashed .286/.323/.549, good for an OPS+ of 136. He has driven in 12 runs and racked up 12 base hits (6 2B, 6 HR) in just 91 at-bats.
Ramon Laureano records final 3 outs in Braves win vs. Phillies – two sliding grabs to end it
Laureano has 20 career DRS in right field and his glove reminded us of his reputation last night as he secured all three of the final outs to seal the deal against the Phillies. The final two outs were difficult plays, to add to the excitement.
If the Braves are going to have a chance at making a run into the postseason, they are going to rely on veteran additions like Laureano, Whit Merrifield, the newly acquired Gio Urshela, and Jorge Soler to pick up the slack after all the injuries.
Feels like we’ve seen something like this before…
Eddie Rosario, Joc Pederson, and Jorge Soler solidified their spots in Atlanta Braves history with their performances in 2021. They joined the team at the trade deadline when fans had pretty much given up hope on the Braves. They were under .500 and Ronald Acuna Jr. was out for the year.
So, hang tight Braves fans. We are getting the best play from Ramon Laureano anyone has seen in years. Soler has been hot since joining the team. Let’s enjoy the ride.
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