Braves' Brian Snitker Speaks out on CF Michael Harris II

The Atlanta Braves are a candidate to land a significant upgrade or two at the MLB trade deadline. They will need them to compete with the elite National League clubs, especially after losing right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver to an elbow injury.

But the Braves first need to prove they deserve the significant upgrades and that they will make a difference.

On the final day of May, the Braves sit at 26-30 and much closer to last place in the NL East than first. Since reaching their high-water mark of 24-23, the Braves have lost seven of their last nine games. That has left them with the fourth-worst record in the NL.

To officially turn things around again, the Braves need their current players to perform better. None may fall more in that category than center fielder Michael Harris II.

Harris went 1-for-4 in the series opener Friday night against the Boston Red Sox and his average almost went up. Overall, he is hitting .229 with a .595 OPS, which is fourth-lowest among NL qualifiers.

Braves manager Brian Snitker addressed Harris' offensive struggles this season Friday.

"Michael is still a young player that’s figuring some things out,” Snitker told reporters Friday, via The Athletic's David O'Brien. “I know the one thing he’s not doing is taking the offensive (struggles) to center field, because he’s making highlight catches every day. I think you’re seeing a young player that’s still figuring things out, and he’s going to get better.

"The upside is really big with a talented kid, a guy like that. He has strength and speed and can play defense. You know, this hitting is tough.”

Snitker is correct about Harris' defense. He added another highlight to his reel in the first game of Thursday's doubleheader against the Philadelphia Phillies.