The Atlanta Braves announced outfielder Mallex Smith exited Sunday’s 6-0 victory over the New York Mets due to a fractured left thumb.
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Smith Hit by Pitch From Antonio Bastardo in 7th Inning
Sunday, June 19
Smith has logged a slash line of .237/.312/.379 as an MLB rookie, which isn’t bad considering the dire circumstances besetting the rebuilding Braves, who improved to only 23-46 with a fifth straight win Sunday.
But the 23-year-old is showing flashes of brilliance and has demonstrated a knack for getting on base. His speed is evident in the 14 bases he’s swiped in 21 attempts this season, an attribute that also aids his outfield range.
Despite his relative inexperience at the highest level of baseball, Smith had the attitude of a veteran after his unfortunate health setback.
“Things happen. At this point, we just swept the Mets. Oh well,” said Smith of his injury, per Braves Radio Network’s Kevin McAlpin. Smith added, per MLB.com’s Mark Bowman, “Things got a little messed up. I’ll just rehab and come back stronger.”
Smith has been the leadoff hitter for Atlanta, which has struggled on offense all season. His absence from the lineup is likely to be an extensive one, further hampering the Braves’ ability to manufacture runs. Jeff Francoeur is next in line to take Smith’s place in the outfield.
At least the club is trending in the right direction for now. Perhaps Atlanta is finding something after a three-game sweep of the reigning World Series runners-up.
With a 9-27 home record, though, the Braves must band together and find a way to play better in front of their home fans to salvage a decent 2016 campaign.
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