Brian McCann, who left Thursday night's game early after straining his right adductor muscle, is unlikely to play this weekend when the Braves close out the regular season with the Phillies.
Brian McCann injury: Braves catcher expected to return for NLDS
McCann is likely to rest this weekend after straining his adductor on Thursday night.
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McCann is, however, expected to be healthy and ready to play Game 1 of the NLDS, according to manager Fredi Gonzalez.
McCann, 29, is hitting .256/.336/.461 this season with 20 home runs and 57 RBI. While the Braves will miss his bat in the middle of their order as they look to wrap up home field advantage for the playoffs, the veteran catcher could stand to have a few extra days off. McCann batted just .170 with a .554 OPS during the month of September, which was easily his worst month of the season.
Evan Gattis will likely serve as the starting catcher moving forward. Gonzalez could also opt to start veteran Gerald Laird behind the plate and shift Gattis to left field, where he has spent most of his time since the All-Star Break.
The NLDS is slated to begin Thursday, Oct. 3.
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