Braves Lose Key Starter for Special Reason

Atlanta will have to adjust its lineup with Michael Harris II on paternity leave.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 6:34pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball player sliding into home plate, with the figure broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of navy, green, and orange, capturing the dynamic motion of the sport in a Cubist style.A Cubist take on the Braves' lineup adjustments with a key player away for a special occasion.Atlanta Today

The Atlanta Braves will be without starting center fielder Michael Harris II this weekend, as he has been placed on the paternity list with a baby on the way. The team has called up infielder Luke Williams to take Harris' spot on the roster, and Eli White is the most likely candidate to start in center field during Harris' absence.

Why it matters

Harris has been a key part of the Braves' lineup, and his absence will force the team to shuffle its outfield alignment. While the Braves have depth to cover for him, losing a starter like Harris, even temporarily, can impact the team's performance on the field.

The details

Harris was placed on the paternity list on Saturday, allowing him to step away from the team for the birth of his child. The Braves have called up infielder Luke Williams from the minors to take Harris' spot on the 40-man roster, and Eli White is expected to start in center field in Harris' absence.

  • Harris was placed on the paternity list on Saturday, April 11, 2026.

The players

Michael Harris II

The Atlanta Braves' starting center fielder who has been placed on the paternity list.

Eli White

The most likely candidate to start in center field for the Braves while Michael Harris II is away.

Luke Williams

The infielder called up from the minors to take Michael Harris II's spot on the Braves' 40-man roster.

Ronald Acuna Jr.

The Braves' star outfielder who does not usually play center field.

Jorge Mateo

A bench bat who could potentially play center field for the Braves in a pinch.

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What’s next

The Braves will need to determine their outfield alignment for the upcoming games, with Eli White likely to start in center field in Harris' absence. The team will also monitor Harris' status and await his return from paternity leave.

The takeaway

The Braves' depth will be tested with the temporary loss of starting center fielder Michael Harris II, but the team has options to fill in during his absence as they await the arrival of his new child.