ATLANTA BRAVES SECOND BASER WHIT MERRIFIELD SUSPENDED FOR ENTIRE SEASON FOLLOWING DEATH OF FATHER”
The Atlanta Braves have been dealt a devastating blow with the announcement that second baseman Whit Merrifield has been suspended for the entire 2023 season following the tragic death of his father.
Merrifield, 32, received the news that his father, Mark Merrifield, had passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Monday. The team has confirmed that Merrifield will be taking an indefinite leave of absence from the team to mourn and attend to his family’s needs.
The Braves have announced that Merrifield will not be returning to the team this season, citing the need for him to focus on his family during this difficult time. The team has also offered its condolences to Merrifield and his family.
“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce Whit’s suspension for the remainder of the season,” said Braves General Manager Alex Anthopoulos. “We can only imagine the pain and grief he’s feeling right now, and we want to give him the space and support he needs to get through this difficult time.”
Merrifield, who was acquired by the Braves in a trade with the Kansas City Royals during the offseason, was expected to be a key player in the team’s lineup. He has been an All-Star and Gold Glove winner in the past and was looking forward to helping the Braves make a deep run in the playoffs.
The news has sent shockwaves throughout the baseball community, with many players and teams offering their condolences to Merrifield and his family.
“My heart goes out to Whit and his family,” said Braves manager Brian Snitker. “We’re going to miss him on the field, but we need to support him during this tough time.”
The Braves have not yet announced any plans for replacing Merrifield on the roster, but it is likely that they will call up a player from the minor leagues to fill the void.
Merrifield’s suspension is effective immediately, and he will be eligible to return to the team in 2024 pending any further disciplinary action.
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