PLAYING TIME: Braun's Reprieve and the MIL OF Picture

NATIONAL LEAGUE

Braun's suspension overturned

Ryan Braun's (OF, MIL) 50-game PED suspension was reversed on appeal, restoring his fulltime status. Braun's presence impacts the competition for OF playing time in MIL. Japanese import Nori Aoki (OF, MIL), a contact hitter with little power and average speed, loomed as the likely replacement had Braun's suspension been upheld.

With Braun in the lineup, Aoki could eventually challenge Nyjer Morgan (OF, MIL) for the CF job. Morgan is coming off a .304-BA campaign that was driven by an elevated 37% hit rate and impressive 26% LD%. While Morgan is likely to open the season as the starter, Aoki provides an alternative if Morgan reverts to his 2010 form (.253 BA/.258 xBA).

Aoki also...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Today

With Alejandro Kirk sidelined with a thumb fracture, Tyler Heineman takes over behind the dish for the Jays. Plus Soto and Betts get imaged, Verlander hits the IL, and there's a Patrick Corbin sighting.
Apr 5 2026 7:56am
A sixth starter will be needed in Chicago; it might be Ben Brown (pictured). Plus Jordan Lawlar to miss more time, and some bullpen moves in Arizona and San Francisco.
Apr 4 2026 9:52am
Jared Triolo is the primary PT loser due to Konnor Griffin's callup. Jose Quintana lands on the IL, while J.P. Crawford returns.
Apr 3 2026 9:08am
With Zach Eflin headed to the IL, Dean Kremer is slated for a rotation spot in Baltimore. Plus Estévez heads to the IL to regroup, and small changes in Colorado and Chicago.
Apr 2 2026 8:40am
Cody Ponce leaves his first start on a cart; Braves recall Martin Perez; DBacks place Pavin Smith on IL; and more...
Mar 31 2026 9:17am

Tools