Braves' Michael Harris Announces Personal News Amid MLB Season

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated May 17, 2026 2:25 PM ET

Atlanta Braves center fielder Michael Harris II has enjoyed a resurgent 2026 season. The 25-year-old has posted a .308 batting average, .333 on-base percentage, .844 OPS, eight home runs and 24 RBIs across his first 42 games.

Despite dealing with some nagging quad tightness throughout May, Harris is still producing at his highest level since his debut year, when he won National League Rookie of the Year.

His strong play has been a major reason Atlanta owns the best record in baseball. Now in his fifth big-league season, Harris has taken a clear step forward at the plate while continuing to provide elite defense in center field.

Atlanta Braves center fielder Michael Harris II (23)© Brett Davis-Imagn Images

With so much happening on the field, Harris also shared major personal news off it. This past week, he and his wife, Esther Harris, announced on Instagram that they welcomed their first child.

The couple posted a series of photos featuring their newborn son and his crib, which displayed his name: Michael Harris III.

Their caption read, “Our little proof that God still answers prayers 'For this child I prayed; and the LORD hath given me my petition which I asked of him' 1 Samuel‬ ‭1‬:‭27‬ ‭️.”

View this post on Instagram

With the arrival of his son and a new chapter beginning in his personal life, Harris will look to keep the good news coming in Atlanta. He is a central part of the Braves hopes not only to return to the postseason but to make a deep run toward the World Series.

Harris has spent his entire career with Atlanta after being drafted by the organization in 2019 and developing through its system. He has always been a true all-around contributor, routinely grading out as one of the best defensive outfielders in the league.

The Braves are hopeful that his offensive surge this season is permanent, especially after his bat has been inconsistent over the past four years.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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