Braves OF Jason Heyward could return next week

Aug 17, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves right fielder Jason Heyward (22) watches his home run against the Washington Nationals during the first inning at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

The Atlanta Braves have been without outfielder Jason Heyward since August 21 when he took a fastball to the face form Jon Niese. Heyward was knocked to the ground and wound up breaking his jaw in two different places.

Without Heyward, the Braves have struggled, winning just five of their last 14 games.

Heyward faced live pitching for the first time since the injury on Wednesday.

“It went well, and that is not an easy thing to do,” Braves hitting coach Greg Walker said. “Now it is all about him getting his timing.”

Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez was also on hand to watch Heyward hit.

Mark Bowman of MLB.com has the story:

"The Braves are still not providing a definitive timetable for Heyward. But there seems to be reason to believe Heyward could be back in Atlanta’s lineup by Monday, when the club begins its final homestand of the season against the Brewers. His return could help spark an offense that has slumbered since he suffered the unfortunate injury."

On the season (95 games), Heyward is batting .253, has an on base percentage of .347 and is slugging .423. He has 13 home runs and 37 RBI.

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