The first move the Atlanta Braves made ahead of this year's trade deadline was bringing in a familiar face in outfielder Lane Thomas. Fans will remember the outfielder from his years spent with the Washington Nationals. It was a solid decision that brought in a needed right-handed option for a team that already has solid bench hitting from the left side, with Mike Yastrzemski and Dominic Smith both offering stretches of notable productivity.
Atlanta pulled the trigger on a deal that gives them a bit more talent in the outfield and better allows the franchise to put Ronald Acuna Jr. at the DH position in an attempt to keep the 2023 MVP healthy and in the lineup. With this in mind, Thomas has a clear role moving forward after putting together a resume that suggests he will be used as a platoon option when Acuna is utilized at DH or when the Braves are facing left-handed pitching.
Thomas has hit .263 against left handers this season offering above average production, while hovering around the Mendoza line against right-handed pitching. What the outfielder hands the Braves is a clear weapon to offset the presence of Yastrzemski and Smith, who can now easily be replaced by a capable hitter when playing matchups.
Braves Added Perfect Trade Deadline Piece in Platoon Option Lane Thomas
It should be noted here as well that Thomas has spent the season in the Kansas City Royals lineup. Aside from Bobby Witt Jr., this is an underwhelming group that doesn't come close to touching Atlanta's potential. With this in mind, there is reason to wonder if joining the more talented lineup could allow the veteran to take a leap in production and perhaps become a viable option beyond just facing left-handed hitting.
Regardless of the answer, it was a solid move for the Braves and helped deepen a bench that has underwhelmed in recent weeks. The question remains whether or not Atlanta has done enough to give itself a puncher's chance against the behemoth that is the Los Angeles Dodgers roster. It is hard to fully appreciate the win that is Thomas when looking at the Dodger roster.
It speaks to a growing problem in the league as the franchise has spent its way to championships and appears to be on that path yet again. The Braves appear content to lean on lesser moves, hoping that the magic of their current roster finds an answer.
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