929 Braves insider Joe Patrick joined Dukes & Bell and talked about when we could see Austin Riley next, how much credit does Brian Snitker deserve for how he’s handled the lineup, plus should the Braves try to re-sign Josh Donaldson?
Patrick talked about when we could see Austin Riley next.
“I think Austin Riley could come back as soon as this weekend.” Patrick said “The Stripers are about to go on the road, and I don’t think the Braves will want him on the road, he’s been playing well, he has six hits here in his last few games. Hopefully this time off has allowed him to get a breather and get his head right because he’s playing really well.”
How much credit does Snitker deserve for this team’s success through injuries?
“I think Snitker deserves credit for the way he’s managed this team.” Patrick said “You think about the start of the season the rotation and everyday lineup hasn’t gone the way they thought it would, the bullpen hasn’t gone the way they thought it would be. He’s not been shy to make the changes when they were needed, he’s been flexible in letting guys play where they play best, the players who are producing have played and I give Brian Snitker credit for that.”
Should the Braves start talking to Josh Donaldson about coming back next season?
“I think you have to.” Patrick said “If you haven’t done it already you’ve really done yourself a disservice, you have to start laying the groundwork if you want these things to work out. I think the Braves would very much benefit from Donaldson coming back, and he’s proved he is well worth what the Braves have been paid him for this season.”
