The Atlanta Braves will make a notable change to their lineup for Tuesday’s game against the Los Angeles Angels, with Michael Harris II out of the starting nine and Drake Baldwin staying in the No. 2 spot as the designated hitter. The move comes as Atlanta tries to end a three-game losing streak and reset the offense after several underwhelming performances from key bats.
Walt Weiss adjusted the order ahead of the matchup, and the Braves will also use Jonah Heim behind the plate in his fourth game with the club. Eli White will replace Harris in center field, giving Atlanta a different look as it searches for more production against an Angels team riding momentum.
Braves Shuffle Their Lineup
Baldwin remains in a premium spot in the batting order, but his role changes from catcher to DH for this game. That decision lets Atlanta keep his bat in play while giving the team flexibility behind the plate with Heim handling catching duties.
The change also reflects the Braves’ need for a spark after a difficult stretch at the plate. Ronald Acuña Jr. and Austin Riley have also fallen short of their usual output, and Atlanta needs more from the top and middle of the order to avoid another setback.
Michael Harris II Sits After Recent Struggles
Harris is not in the starting lineup after a series of unproductive trips to the plate. His absence opens the door for White, who will take over in center field and give the Braves a different defensive and offensive profile.
Atlanta has not named the move as anything beyond a lineup choice, but the timing shows how the club is looking for answers. A short-term reset can matter in a tight division race, especially when the offense has not consistently backed the pitching staff.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Reynaldo López will start for Atlanta against the Angels.
- Mike Trout returns to the lineup and will bat second for Los Angeles.
- Trout has a 1.525 OPS in nine career matchups against López.
- Nolan Schanuel is set to play first base for the Angels.
- Travis d’Arnaud is expected back at catcher and will hit eighth.
Trout’s return adds another layer to the matchup, especially on a night tied to his bobblehead promotion. His past success against López gives Los Angeles a clear centerpiece in the lineup, while Atlanta will need a cleaner defensive and pitching performance to slow the Angels’ momentum.
What the Angels Bring Into the Game
Los Angeles enters the contest looking for a fourth straight win, and the lineup includes several familiar names in key spots. The return of Trout and d’Arnaud gives the Angels more depth, while the batting order again puts pressure on Atlanta early.
The game is scheduled for 9:38 p.m. EDT, and the lineup decisions on both sides suggest a matchup shaped by urgency. Atlanta needs a win to stop its slide, while the Angels will try to extend their run and keep their offense moving against López.
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