Spring Training success doesn’t always translate to regular season success, but if it does when it comes to the Braves’ options in left field, fans will be over the moon.
A lot of eyes have been on Marcell Ozuna this offseason, who struggled through the first week or so of Braves Spring Training. However, ever since Brian Snitker guaranteed his spot on the Opening Day roster, The Big Bear has looked much more like the player we saw in 2020.
Against the Phillies on Tuesday, Ozuna had a double, single, and 4 RBIs on the afternoon. And that followed a game versus the Orioles in which he had two doubles. Ozuna’s average is now up to .321 this Spring, so if there was any doubt about whether he would be in the Opening Day lineup, he’s putting it to rest.
Braves fans understandably aren’t fond of Ozuna. He’s been a nuisance off the field and just as bad on it over the past two years. Nobody would have blamed Alex Anthopoulos one bit if he had cut ties with Ozuna, but they’ve hung on, and there’s a chance it pays dividends in 2023.
The undeniable fact of the matter is the Braves need Ozuna. He’s their best option to serve as the team’s designated hitter. Most of the roster is elite, but the back end of the lineup is in desperate need of some pop. If there’s one thing that Ozuna can provide, it’s that. It might not change how fans feel about him, but it will help the team in the win column, which the Braves have made clear is their top priority.
More must-reads: