Jose

Azocar

Azócar returns to Atlanta as emergency organizational depth after spending a couple days testing the free agent waters. The 30-year-old journeyman has gone 5-for-15 with a stolen base in nine games for the Braves this season. He’ll head to Triple-A Gwinnett to wait for his next opportunity.

Azócar has opted for free agency. The Braves designated him for assignment on Wednesday, and he went unclaimed despite going 5-for-15 with two doubles in two major league stints this season.

With Ronald Acuna Jr back and Eli White off the concussion IL, there was simply no room in the outfield for Azócar. He could re-sign a minor league deal with the Braves if he clears waivers.

It appears to be nothing more than a routine day of rest for the versatile 31-year-old. Jose Azocar will draw a start in his place in left field and will bat ninth against Red Sox’ right-hander Brayan Bello on Sunday.

Azócar appeared in two games for the Braves earlier this season, going 0-for-2. The former Padre is a lifetime .243/,288/.318 hitter in 420 plate appearances. He’ll occupy a bench spot until Ronald Acuña Jr. comes off the injured list.

Azocar spent a couple days testing the free agent waters before returning to Atlanta on a brand-new deal. The 30-year-old will continue to function as emergency outfield depth after getting into a pair of games for the Braves earlier this season.

Rather than accepting an outright assignment to Triple-A Gwinnett, the 29-year-old outfielder will peddle his wares on the open market instead. A terrific defender and baserunner, it’s unlikely that he’ll be out of work for long.

Azocar was designated for assignment earlier in the week but passed through waivers unclaimed and will continue to function as extra outfield depth for the Braves at Triple-A Gwinnett. The 29-year-old went hitless in two at-bats and stole a base during his limited action with the big league club.

With Michael Harris II (quad) feeling better, the Braves are going with a reserve infielder instead of another outfielder. Azocar was playing well in Triple-A, hitting .270/.348/.420 with a pair of homers, 11 RBI, and eight stolen bases in his first 113 plate appearances. He could return to the Braves on a minor league contract if he clears waivers.

The 29-year-old outfielder was off to a solid start at Triple-A Gwinnett, slashing .270/.348/.420 with a pair of homers, 11 RBI and eight stolen bases in his first 113 plate appearances. He’ll provide depth in the Braves’ outfield with Ronald Acuña Jr. (hamstring) sidelined.