ATLANTA (AP) — The Atlanta Braves are planning to activate All-Star second baseman Martin Prado for the opener of their series against the Washington Nationals — but move him to a new position.
The tentative lineup for Tuesday night’s game has Prado at third base and hitting third instead of leadoff, essentially filling the hole created by Chipper Jones’ season-ending injury. Omar Infante will remain at second and bat leadoff.
The Braves will hold off on officially activating Prado from the 15-day disabled list until after batting practice, just to make sure he doesn’t have any lingering problems from breaking his right pinky finger while sliding into home against Cincinnati on June 30. Infielder Brandon Hicks will be returned to Triple-A Gwinnett.
