marquee matchup

Tommy Hanson, the former Mississippi Braves ace, goes against former Ole Miss star Matt Maloney in a matchup of prized rookie hurlers today when Atlanta takes on Cincinnati. Both have had mixed results to date. Atlanta, which has lost four straight, including the last two against Cincinnati, is approaching the desperation stage. Don’t know if that’s a good thing or not for Hanson, who is carrying a heavy burden as the Braves’ anointed future ace.
P.S. Waiting for word on changes to the M-Braves’ roster. First baseman Freddie Freeman would seem to be the logical choice to be promoted first. The M-Braves certainly need a power bat at that position. Outfielder Jason Heyward played again Wednesday night for the first time in a couple of weeks; he may get a shot here soon enough. Outfielder Cody Johnson also may rate a look, and third baseman Donell Linares is yet another possibility. The second half starts on Monday at Trustmark Park. Maybe the new bodies will arrive at the same time.