Martin Prado is nearing his return to the Atlanta Braves lineup. He's taking a big step forward today.
According to a tweet from MLB.com's Chris Cox, Prado will take outdoor batting practice today for the first time since undergoing surgery to clean out a staph infection near his right calf. The outfielder has not played since June 10. There has not been a date set for Prado's return to Atlanta, but one would assume he'll continue working out and taking batting practice through the weekend before being cleared to go on a Minor League rehab assignment.
Prado's return to the lineup will be absolutely huge. Not only does it give the team their leadoff man back, but it also lets Frank Wren see his club at full strength. If the offense performs well once Prado returns, perhaps Wren doesn't look quite as hard at acquiring an outfield bat as rumored in previous weeks.