Sweeping changes to Braves lineup as they search for a spark in San Diego
Battery Power • • sports
Key Points:
- The Braves are adjusting their lineup amid an offensive slump, with Michael Harris II returning to the leadoff spot and Mauricio Dubón moving to fifth and shortstop for Tuesday's game against the Padres.
- Drake Baldwin has been moved down to sixth in the lineup as he struggles offensively, while Rowdy Tellez makes his first start as designated hitter, and Dominic Smith starts in left field batting cleanup.
- The Padres are starting Wandy Peralta as an opener, with Griffin Canning expected to pitch the bulk of the game; most Braves hitters have limited experience against Canning except Matt Olson, who has moderate success.
- The Padres made minor lineup changes, promoting Samad Taylor to second and inserting Gavin Sheets at first base, with Sung-Mun Song starting at second base and batting ninth.
- Braves starter JR Ritchie faces the Padres for the second time this season, with no Padres hitters having previous at-bats against him, raising questions about how the pitching matchup will influence run production and the outcome of the series.
