After Sunday’s loss to the New York Yankees, Marcell Ozuna revealed that he has fully recovered from the sore hip that had hindered his performance earlier this season, according to David O’Brien of The Athletic. The veteran slugger stated,
“It was my hip earlier this season, but now I feel fantastic.”
Timing at the Plate Remains a Major Challenge
Despite his physical recovery, Ozuna admitted he is still struggling to find confidence and proper timing while batting. He explained,
“I just lost my confidence at the plate. I just lost my timing, and that’s what I’ve been battling. As soon as I get my timing back, everything’s coming like last year and the year before.”
Reduced Playing Time and Trade Speculation
Ozuna has lost his regular place in the Atlanta Braves’ starting lineup, as catchers Sean Murphy and Drake Baldwin have been given opportunities at designated hitter. His low .139/.262/.333 slash line over 42 plate appearances in July, including an 0-for-4 performance on Sunday, has provided little justification for his return to the starting role. With the team’s playoff prospects fading, trade rumors have surfaced around Ozuna, but he has not commented on whether he would exercise his 10-and-5 rights to veto a potential trade. He remarked,
“That’s my agent and [Atlanta GM] Alex [Anthopoulos], that’s what they’re working on,”
adding, “I don’t know.”
Uncertain Outlook for Ozuna’s Role and Value
Until Ozuna can regain his form at the plate, his contributions to the Braves will likely remain limited, and his value as both a player and a trade asset will continue to decline. His ongoing pursuit of timing and confidence recovery will be critical for any resurgence as the season progresses.