Pastornicky gets chance at everyday role

SAN FRANCISCO -- As Dan Uggla remains in limbo with the realization that his days as an everyday player in Atlanta are likely complete, Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez is ready to give Tyler Pastornicky a chance to prove he is capable of earning an everyday role as Atlanta's second baseman.

The Braves utilized Pastornicky as their starting second baseman for the third time in a four-day span on Tuesday night. Ramiro Pena initially saw a majority of the time at second base after Uggla was benched last week. But Gonzalez believes Pena is more valuable on the bench, where he can provide versatility defensively and at the plate as a pinch hitter.

"I'm going to let them play a little bit, maybe play Pastornicky play a little more at second base," Gonzalez said. "Give him an opportunity to play whether it's a righty, lefty, under-armer or sidearmer, just go out and play. And let Pena be what he's been successful with, playing once or twice a week. Let him go back to his normal role."

Pastornicky has recorded two hits while compiling just 17 at-bats thus far this season. The Braves are hoping that the chance to play on a more consistent basis will allow him to regain the promise he showed when he hit .292 with a .747 OPS in 74 games with Triple-A Gwinnett last year.