After a slow and injury-marred start to his second stint with the Atlanta Braves, Jorge Soler has found his form at the perfect time. In September, Soler has been a key contributor to the Braves' push for the postseason, boasting a impressive .290 batting average, .359 on-base percentage, and a .551 slugging percentage.
Soler's September stats include 20 hits, four home runs, and 12 RBIs. His strong performance is highlighted by an 11.8% walk rate, which ranks in the 92nd percentile across MLB. This resurgence is crucial for the Braves, who are currently on a five-game winning streak and holding onto the second Wild Card spot by a narrow margin.
A Critical Acquisition
The Braves acquired Soler at the trade deadline in a move that has proven to be highly beneficial. Despite initial struggles and a hamstring injury that kept him out for over a week, Soler has heated up significantly since his return. His acquisition, which involved trading lefty Tyler Matzek and third baseman Sabin Ceballo, is now seen as a low-risk, high-reward move.
Soler's contract, which includes $16 million per year for the next two years, was a consideration, but the Braves managed to retain their top prospects while adding a solid bat to their lineup. This move has been particularly valuable given the team's ongoing roster adjustments due to injuries and underperformance from other players.
Recent Performance
In the 13 games since September 4, Soler has batted .318 with a .979 OPS, hitting two home runs and driving in six runs. This streak has been pivotal in stabilizing the Braves' lineup and providing the necessary momentum as they approach the postseason.
Soler's recent games have included standout performances, such as going 2-for-3 with a two-run homer, a walk, and an additional run scored in a victory over the Dodgers. This performance broke a 49-plate-appearance drought without a home run for Soler.
Challenges and Future Outlook
While Soler's offensive resurgence is a significant boost, he has faced challenges, including early defensive struggles with a -7 Outs Above Average (OAA) and high strikeout and whiff rates. However, if he maintains his current form, he could be a key asset for the Braves as they aim for another championship run.
As the Braves prepare for potential playoff matchups, Soler's performance will be vital. His ability to contribute both with his bat and his experience could make him a candidate for another postseason MVP accolade, reminiscent of his 2021 World Series MVP performance.
