New York Yankees outfielder Alex Verdugo (24) reacts after hitting a sacrifice RBI against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the second inning during game four of the 2024 MLB World Series at Yankee Stadium. Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

An important update on Alex Verdugo

Originally posted on SportsTalkATL | By Chase Irle | Last updated Apr 5, 2025 9:16 PM ET

It was a memorable home opener for the Braves, as they finally cracked into the win column in style, breaking a seven-game losing streak. Spencer Schwellenbach was unhittable on the mound, and the offense woke up, racking up a season-high 10 runs on 16 hits.

But down on the farm, there were a multitude of notable developments. Spencer Strider was incredibly efficient over 75 pitches, going 5.1 innings without allowing a single hit and punching out eight. He could return to Atlanta as soon as next week, and for Sean Murphy, it could be even sooner, as he caught in back-to-back games for the first time.

Additionally, Alex Verdugo was activated to the Gwinnett Stripers roster and made his first appearance of the season.

Stripers’ Roster Moves:
– OF Alex Verdugo has been activated from Extended Spring, and has been assigned to AAA-Gwinnett.
– RHP Amos Willingham placed on 7-day IL retroactive to April 3
– LHP Brian Moran placed on Development List

— Stripers Report (@StripersReport) April 4, 2025

Verdugo was signed by the Braves on March 20th, so he needed some time to get back into the swing of things, but now that he’s been activated, it shouldn’t be long before he’s in Atlanta as well.

Thanks to Jurickson Profar‘s suspension for PEDs, the Braves desperately need help in the outfield, especially with the way Jarred Kelenic has been struggling, who doesn’t even look like a major-league ballplayer. If the Braves are going to salvage their outfield situation until Ronald Acuña Jr. returns, Verdugo is the team’s best chance.

This article first appeared on SportsTalkATL and was syndicated with permission.

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