Braves Call Up Journeyman Outfielder Rafael Ortega From Triple-A
By Parker White
On Tuesday before they begin a three-game series against the New York Mets, the Atlanta Braves selected the contract of outfielder Rafael Ortega from Triple-A Gwinnett.
To make room for him on the active roster, right-handed pitcher Patrick Weigel was optioned to Gwinnett.
The #Braves today selected the contract of OF Rafael Ortega from Triple-A Gwinnett and optioned RHP Patrick Weigel to @GoStripers.
— Atlañta Braves (@Braves) August 13, 2019
Ortega, 28, signed with the Braves this offseason after spending time with several organizations, including the Miami Marlins in 2018. The journeyman outfielder is slashing .285/.373/.524 with 21 home runs and 58 RBI in 111 games at Triple-A.
This is the first time Ortega has racked up double-digit home runs over his career.
Rafael Ortega: Promoted to majors #ChopOn - https://t.co/ZlE0U2V8Lf
— RotoWire⚾ (@RotoWireMLB) August 13, 2019
Ortega provides the Braves with some outfield depth, as Nick Markakis is still out with a fractured hand. Now that Austin Riley could miss significant time with a knee injury, the addition of Ortega is necessary.