Michael Harris II Injures Hamstring, 2/3 of Braves Starting Outfield on IL

TB

Taylor Bicht

2 min read • June 16, 2024

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MLB
Michael Harris II Injures Hamstring, 2/3 of Braves Starting Outfield on IL

Atlanta Braves Injury Update

Atlanta Braves outfielder Michael Harris II left the June 14 game due to a hamstring injury sustained while trying to go from first to third in the first inning. He was subsequently placed on the 10-day injured list. Manager Brian Snitker reported that Harris suffered a Grade 2 hamstring injury and would be out "a long time." According to sicscore.com, a soft tissue injury for a speed player like Harris II is a bad combination, likely sidelining him for over a month, extending past the All-Star break.

This injury compounds the Braves' outfield challenges, as two-thirds of their starting outfield is now on the injured list. Star outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. is already out for the season due to a torn ACL, making Harris' absence even more impactful. The loss of Harris II, a key player known for his speed, significantly weakens the Braves' defensive and offensive capabilities.

Offensive Struggles to Continue

The Braves will struggle to replicate their usual performance with the remaining outfielders, Jared Kelenic and Adam Duvall. While both players are capable, the absence of Harris II and Acuña Jr. leaves a significant gap in the Braves' lineup. The team's ability to compete at a high level will be tested as they navigate through the remainder of the season without two of their top outfielders.