:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59491217/usa_today_10303421.0.jpg)
As expected Jose Bautista was added to Gwinnett’s roster on Monday and will be in the lineup for tonight’s doubleheader. He could be added to Atlanta’s roster during their current 10-game road trip which begins Monday in Cincinnati.
Once Bautista arrives, it looks like he will be given a full opportunity to play at third base. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Gabe Burns reports that he will be the team’s starting third baseman with Ryan Flaherty sliding into a utility role.
Jose Bautista will become #Braves starting third baseman when he's promoted. Ryan Flaherty will be utilityman. Bautista is in Triple-A to see better pitching. Team doesn't anticipate he'll need much time there.
— Gabe Burns (@GabeBurnsAJC) April 23, 2018
That is a significant report given how Flaherty has performed as the team’s third baseman. Through 18 games, Flaherty is slashing .362/.471/.500 with five doubles and a home run. It might not be wise to expect Flaherty to maintain that pace for the rest of the season but at this juncture unseating him, especially against left handed pitching, is substantial.