Atlanta Braves center fielder Michael Harris was absent from the lineup for Thursday’s series finale against the Detroit Tigers. Instead, Eli White drew the start in center field in his place.
Harris did appear in the game, pinch-hitting for Kyle Farmer, who started at designated hitter, yet he did not take the field for Atlanta. The Braves ultimately lost 5-2, ending a three-game winning streak.
After the game, manager Walt Weiss spoke with reporters and had some unfortunate news to share. Weiss revealed that Harris is still dealing with left quad tightness, which is why he did not start the game and was only available off the bench.
He admitted that an IL stint is on the table for Harris, and he anticipates the 25-year-old center fielder will continue to log starts as DH (h/t Harrison Smajovits of On SI).
Harris originally suffered the quad injury last week during a game against the Washington Nationals, exiting early after experiencing discomfort on the bases. His removal was originally deemed precautionary, but clearly it is not something Harris has been able to move past, which is unfortunate because he is having a special season.
Harris has posted a .320 batting average, .355 on-base percentage, .895 OPS, six home runs and 20 RBIs across 29 games. He has continued to play excellent defense in the outfield as well.
© Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Harris is now in his fifth season in MLB, and this has been his best offensive year since 2022 when he took home National League Rookie of the Year. His production this season has helped Atlanta start the year with the best record in the league, and despite the loss on Thursday they still own sole possession of first place in the National League Central.
Harris' next chance to suit up will be on Friday in Coors Field with the Braves opening a road trip against the Colorado Rockies. However, it is a possibility that he is moved to the 10-day injured list by that point.
