The Atlanta Braves are off to a commanding start in the National League East, giving fans little to complain about in the way of struggling players. Still, there have been a handful of underachieving pieces that clearly are set for demotion.
Among them is veteran outfielder Eli White, who has been limited ot 20 at-bats to start the season, offering only a trio of hits. This has led manager Walt Weiss to utilize White as a defensive replacement and rarely give the outfielder a shot in the lineup. It has been shortstop Mauricio Dubon shifting into the outfield more often when the team wants to give a starter a day off.
Dubon has clearly won the trust of Weiss, and the Braves are preparing for the return of shortstop Ha-Seong Kim. This leaves the team the clear option of platooning Kim, Dubon, and Mike Yastrzemski, leaving White as a non-factor. It is becoming increasingly clear that the outfielder is living on borrowed time, barring a hot streak offensively.
White's speed and defense are useful, but for a team that has gotten off to such an impressive start, it is difficult to roster a piece that is such an offensive liability. The Braves need to rip the band-aid off and turn the page on a player who hasn't offered the expected value.
A lot of credit is due to Jorge Mateo, Dominic Smith, and Dubon for taking advantage of surprise opportunities. None of the three were expected to take on the early-season roles they have, and the success has clearly been to White's detriment.
Braves Have No Choice but to Demote Eli White as Offensive Struggles Continue
White hit .282 in a limited role in the 2024 season before becoming an important piece of the lineup the following year due to a myriad of injuries. The veteran offered a .234 average, collecting 60 hits in what was a solid season from an unexpected producer.
However, less than a month into the 2026 season, the fact that the outfielder can't match this level of production demands a move from Atlanta. This is due to the team's current wealth of options and the upcoming returns of not only Kim, but also catcher Sean Murphy.
To put it simply, the Braves are too talented to put up with White's lack of production, and the outfielder's contract makes it easy to turn the page. There is also the possibility that White would be willing to remain with the franchise as a minor league option. Regardless of the answer, it is clear what the Braves need to do as the roster continues to get healthier and White is no longer producing at an acceptable level.
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