‘I will play’: Albies vows return in ’24 as right-handed hitter

Braves second baseman Ozzie Albies is determined to return to the field in 2024, even if it means switching to hitting right-handed.

Albies, who is currently recovering from a broken foot, made the announcement on social media Thursday.

The 26-year-old Albies has been one of the Braves’ most consistent hitters in recent years, batting .278 with an .828 OPS over the past four seasons. However, he has struggled with injuries in 2023, playing in just 64 games.

In July, Albies suffered a broken foot that required surgery. He is expected to miss the rest of the 2023 season.

Despite the injury, Albies is already looking ahead to 2024. He told reporters on Thursday that he is planning to return as a right-handed hitter.

Albies has always been a left-handed hitter, but he said he is making the switch in order to improve his swing and reduce the risk of future injuries.

“I’ve been working on my right-handed swing for a while now,” Albies said. “I feel like I can be a better hitter from the right side. I’m excited to see what I can do.”

If Albies is able to successfully make the switch to hitting right-handed, it would be a major boost for the Braves. He is one of the team’s most talented players, and his return would give the Braves a much-needed boost in the middle of their lineup.