Atlanta Braves Outfielder Lane Thomas Progresses Toward Postseason Return After Intercostal Injury

With a 92-64 record and the National League East title secured, the Atlanta Braves are eyeing reinforcements as they prepare for October baseball, with injured outfielder Lane Thomas showing encouraging signs of an early return.

What People Are Searching For

Fans and fantasy baseball managers alike have closely tracked the status of outfielder Lane Thomas since he landed on the 10-get injured list due to a left intercostal muscle strain. Having missed action since going down prior to a September 10 game, supporters want to know whether the right-handed bat will be ready to contribute when the Braves kick off their postseason run.

What Is Confirmed

According to MLB.com's Mark Bowman, Thomas received a cortisone injection last week to calm inflammation in his ribs. On Tuesday, he successfully took light swings off a tee at Truist Park. The 31-year-old outfielder told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Chad Bishop that he feels he is a little bit ahead of schedule in his recovery.

What Is Unconfirmed

While the progression is certainly positive, team officials have not established a concrete timeline for his official activation. Whether he will be ready for the opening games of the Wild Card round remains to be seen, though the club holds optimism that he could be available during the early portion of the postseason.

The Bigger Picture

Acquired from the Kansas City Royals at the August 2 trade deadline alongside left-hander Bailey Falter in exchange for Carter Holton and Lucas Braun, Thomas serves a vital role as a platoon option against left-handed pitching. Although he has slashed just .171 with one home run and three RBIs in 46 plate appearances since joining Atlanta, his career success against southpaws makes him a valuable weapon for manager Brian Snitker's bench in October.

Latest Status

The Braves finished up their series against the Houston Astros with a 4-2 victory, locking down their seventh division title in the last nine years. As the team looks ahead to hosting a series at Truist Park, Thomas continues his daily baseball activities with hopes of rejoining the active roster.

FAQ

• When did Lane Thomas suffer his injury?

  Thomas sustained a left intercostal muscle strain in mid-September during batting practice before a game.

• What treatment did Lane Thomas receive?

  He received a cortisone injection last week to help manage the discomfort in his side.

• Could Lane Thomas return for the playoffs?

  Atlanta coaching staff and medical personnel believe he could be ready to return during the early stages of the postseason.

• What is Lane Thomas's primary role with the Braves?

  He functions primarily as a right-handed platoon bat, seeing significant action in the outfield against left-handed starting pitchers.