Atlanta Braves news: Marcell Ozuna’s seat just got even hotter

In all likelihood, Marcell Ozuna will begin the 2023 season on the Atlanta Braves roster. It won’t just be handed to him, however.

Marcell Ozuna’s seat is getting warmer by the day, as his competition for the starting left field spot is playing quite well. On Thursday, both Eli White and Kevin Pillar played well.

The former, White, hit a home run off Carlos Carrasco and drove in three Braves baserunners.

Kevin Pillar, who is a veteran of more than a decade in the big leagues, signed a contract with the team just prior to spring training. Pillar scored a run and played right field on Thursday, though he’s capable of playing left as well.

Sure, it’s only spring training, but it’s a compliment to Alex Anthopoulos that these supplementary outfielders he brought in for pennies on the dollar are performing beyond what most expected. It also shows just how much Ozuna is under-performing that his spot is in question to begin with.

Atlanta Braves news: Marcell Ozuna feeling the heat

The home run by Eli White comes just days after Ozuna was on the wrong end of a splitsquad game, playing with primarily prospects and fringe roster players. What does that say about how he’s viewed in Braves camp?

Ozuna is just two years removed from leading the National League in home runs — albeit in a shortened 2020 campaign. But in the two years since, he’s struggled mightily, providing some power but failing to consistently get on base. His off-field issues, which include a DUI and domestic violence investigation, have some fans wondering if he’s worth the roster spot.

Ozuna’s contract, which will cost Atlanta $16 million this year and next, doesn’t help his case. It also makes him tougher to trade than most underwhelming talents.

Just another storyline from what’s been a busy first few weeks at spring training for Snitker’s group.