Paul Janish arrived at Turner Field on Sunday and was promptly inserted into the starting lineup by Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez and that figures to be an everyday thing until Andrelton Simmons returns from injury.
"We got him to play shortstop," Gonzalez said. "We didn't bring him in to win the batting title. He's here to sure up our defense and catch the ball."
Janish isn't expected to hit much as his .237 average at Triple-A Louisville suggests but he is more than adequate defensively and right now that is what Atlanta needs most while it waits for Andrelton Simmons to return from a broken finger on his throwing hand. Janish understands his role and is grateful to have another opportunity.
"I'm probably going to be a catch and throw guy for the majority of my career," Janish said. "I'm comfortable with that. I'm fine with that. I take a lot of pride in my defense. Whatever I can do to help the team win. Obviously, wins are big right now from here on out down the stretch. Whatever I can do to help."
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