Hernandez's Injury Gives Braves Roster Flexibility

Diory Hernandez's injury could prevent the Braves from having to lose another player. View full size photo » Here in the early days of Spring Training we've learned that Braves infielder Diory Hernandez injured his left (non-throwing) shoulder playing winter ball and that that injury required surgery that will keep him out of action until the middle of the season. Hernandez was expected to come into camp and compete with Brooks Conrad and Joe Thurston for the last spot on the Braves' bench. While both have more professional experience and are considered better hitters, Hernandez is a better defender at shortstop, second and third base than either of his competitiors, something that may have been more valuable as the final man on the bench. Hernandez was much maligned for his poor showing with the bat in his short time with Atlanta in 2009, but, as his Minor League numbers show, he is a very good contact hitter and much more capable than his small Major League sa...