Ender Inciarte returns to lineup for series opener against Dodgers

The Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers get together over the weekend for a three-game set, with the first game arriving (late) on Friday evening. After a one-game absence, Ender Inciarte returns to the lineup for the Braves and Brian Snitker will deploy the following group in the opener.

Inciarte’s return comes as no surprise, as he was simply given a day off in the midst of offensive struggles. The 27-year-old boasts an ugly .244/.305/.341 slash line (77 wRC+) for the season and, in the recent past, Inciarte has really struggled, reaching base only four times in 23 plate appearances so far in June. On the bright side, he is running wild on the base paths and still playing high-end defense at a premium position, but perhaps the two-day break will provide a reset.

Elsewhere, Charlie Culberson and Ryan Flaherty are in the lineup, pushing Inciarte to the No. 6 slot. At the top, the infield duo of Ozzie Albies and Dansby Swanson remain, even with Inciarte returning.

In opposition, the Dodgers will use the following lineup in the opener, headlined by rookie starting pitcher Walker Buehler.

Even with injuries plaguing the Dodgers, there are a few worry spots. In fact, old friend Matt Kemp has been lights-out this season and Joc Pederson, in the leadoff spot, has been red-hot lately.

Stay tuned.