The Atlanta Braves have an interesting decision to make in how they are going to handle the return of Jurickson Profar. Managing playing time between Eli White, Alex Verdugo, and Profar is going to be an interesting problem to have. It isn't as if the far more proven veteran cannot help you win games. However, the problem is you're taking away at-bats from players you will need in any postseason berth. The obvious counter to this is that the current Atlanta roster isn't showing itself capable of pushing the team into any playoff positioning.
Atlanta is far removed from the National League East race and is continuing to fall further behind in the wildcard standings. Profar's return sparking any type of meaningful change is a long shot. Still, it is one of the few hopes remaining for a roster that simply appears to be a bad team right now. One player isn't fixing a group that simply lacks any aura, feeling flat and often appearing to take nights off offensively.
Braves Have to Make an Obvious Decision When Jurickson Profar Returns from Suspension
One piece of Profar's return that isn't in question is which piece it will demote from the Atlanta roster. Profar has experience playing in so many positions that the Braves are far more flexible when the veteran returns. Add in the fact that they have Eli White working on improving in the infield, and it is going to be Luke Williams who is on his way out when the team is able to bring Profar back.
Luke Williams was hitting poorly with the Gwinnett Stripers before being elevated as a defensive replacement and pinch runner. This is the only value that Williams brings to the roster, considering his offensive issues. Barring a surprise emergence at the plate, the infielder is going to be demoted as soon as Atlanta can bring the suspended Profar back to the active roster.
The only other option is Stuart Fairchild, who is likely to be kept due to being a superior offensive option. Add in the speed you can deploy as a pinch runner, and Profar's return is going to spell the end for Williams in Atlanta. With this in mind, the infielder should enjoy the next month of the season, understanding it is his last as a member of the active roster.