The struggling Atlanta Braves, currently in last place in the NL East with a 5-13 record and ranking 26th in the majors with 61 runs scored, have recalled outfielder Alex Verdugo to bolster their offense. In a corresponding move, outfielder Bryan De La Cruz has been optioned to Triple-A Gwinnett. Verdugo, who signed a $1.5 million, one-year contract on March 20, began the season in the minors due to his absence from spring training. The 28-year-old left-handed hitter posted a .233 average with 13 home runs and 61 RBIs for the New York Yankees in 2024 after four seasons with Boston.
Verdugo, known for his career batting average of .272 and strong defensive skills, could potentially secure a regular role even after the return of 2023 NL MVP Ronald Acuña Jr., who is recovering from surgery to repair his torn left ACL. Acuña suffered the ACL injury on May 26, underwent surgery on June 6, and is anticipated to make a comeback possibly in May. De La Cruz, who struggled with a .191 batting average and no home runs in 47 at-bats, has been sent down to the minors as the Braves aim to revitalize their offensive production ahead of their upcoming series against Minnesota at home.