Michael Harris II Searching for Answers as September Slump Deepens
ATLANTA — Just a month ago, Michael Harris II looked like one of the hottest hitters in baseball. From July 18 through August 18, the Braves’ center fielder hit .398 with a 1.144 OPS, spraying line drives to all fields and providing the spark that helped Atlanta maintain its hold atop the National League East. Now, with the calendar flipped to September, Harris is searching for the rhythm that made him so dangerous.
Over his past 36 at-bats, Harris has just three hits and no walks, batting .083 with a .469 OPS. The contrast is as startling as it is sudden. “Baseball can be humbling,” Harris said quietly after a recent loss. “You stay positive, trust your work, and know it’ll turn.”
Braves hitting coach Kevin Seitzer emphasized patience. “Michael’s swing mechanics haven’t drastically changed,” Seitzer explained. “This is more about timing and pitch recognition. He’ll find it again. Every hitter goes through stretches like this.”
Manager Brian Snitker echoed that sentiment, praising Harris’ work ethic and defense. “He’s still playing Gold Glove–level center field,” Snitker said. “We know the bat will come back. He’s too talented for it not to.”
Despite the slump, Harris continues to impact games in other ways. His speed on the bases forces mistakes, and his range in center remains elite. Teammates say his demeanor has stayed even-keeled. “He’s the same guy every day,” said first baseman Matt Olson. “That’s what you need over a long season.”
The Braves’ powerful lineup has helped absorb Harris’ dip in production, with MVP candidate Ronald Acuña Jr. and slugger Austin Riley carrying the offensive load. But with the postseason approaching, a resurgent Harris would provide an extra layer of danger for opposing pitchers.
Harris, 23, broke out as the 2022 National League Rookie of the Year and entered this season determined to avoid a sophomore slump. His summer surge seemed to prove he had adjusted to the league’s adjustments. That makes his September skid even more puzzling—and a reminder of baseball’s unforgiving nature.
“Sometimes you do everything right and the hits just don’t fall,” Harris said. “I’ve been through stretches like this in the minors. You keep grinding.”
The Braves remain confident their young center fielder will regain his form before October. “It’s a 162-game season,” Snitker said. “This is part of the journey.”
For now, Harris continues to work in the cage and trust the process. The Braves know that when his bat heats back up, their already potent offense could become even more formidable—just in time for the games that matter most.
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