Yasiel Puig Expected to Return to Dodgers Lineup in Atlanta

Yasiel Puig is expected to return to the Dodgers during their upcoming series against the Braves according to a report from Alanna Rizzo. The Dodgers’ right-fielder was placed on the disabled list after suffering an oblique strain in a game against the Angels on July 8.

Yasiel Puig, out with an oblique injury, is targeted for a return during #Braves series, which begins on Thursday in Atlanta.

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— AlaNNa Rizzo (@alannarizzo) July 21, 2018

He was pulled from that game after doubling up in pain in the midst of an at-bat. Earlier in that game, Puig had slugged his 11th home run of the season. He came out after swinging very hard on a pitch and then trying to follow up with another very hard swing.

Andrew Toles was his replacement, being called up from AAA. Toles got the boot from the 25-man roster in the Machado trade.

Analysis

Puig appeared in 7 games in July prior to hitting the DL. In that stretch, he batted .347 with 2 home runs and 8 RBIs. Hopefully, Puig will be able to pick up his hot streak right where he left off. While we’d like to see that happen, he’ll likely need some time to get back to form.

It is not clear whether Dave Roberts will have Puig start once he’s reactivated. It wouldn’t be surprising to see his bat coming off the bench for the first couple of games as he readjusts.