ATLANTA -- The Braves’ outfield depth took a hit on Thursday when Lane Thomas strained his left intercostal while taking batting practice.
Thomas was scratched from the lineup approximately 20 minutes before the start of Thursday afternoon’s win over the Rays. On Friday, he was placed on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to Tuesday.
“I was just doing my normal routine before the game, and I felt like a little grab in my rib cage,” Thomas said. “I tried to swing a few more times, and just couldn't really get through it.”
Thomas will likely miss at least a month. But he will be re-evaluated Sunday with the hope he might be able to expedite his recovery and become available during one of the first couple rounds of the playoffs.
With Thomas sidelined, the Braves will primarily utilize Mauricio Dubón as their left fielder against left-handed starters, opening the door for Ha-Seong Kim to serve as the shortstop during those games. Brewer Hicklen is a right-handed-hitting outfielder who would also be an option to start when Mike Yastrzemski sits against lefties.
DaShawn Keirsey Jr. was recalled from Triple-A Gwinnett to take Thomas’ roster spot. Keirsey is a left-handed hitter who will likely be used primarily as a late-inning defensive replacement and pinch-runner. The 29-year-old hit .107 with a .317 OPS in 88 plate appearances for the Twins last year. He produced a .649 OPS and was successful with 40 of 43 stolen-base attempts for Gwinnett this year.
Thomas was acquired from the Royals before the Trade Deadline to give the Braves a right-handed hitter who could platoon with Yastrzemski in left field. Thomas has hit just .171 with a .578 OPS in 46 plate appearances for Atlanta.