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Michael Harris II of the Atlanta Braves is showing potential for an NL MVP campaign, highlighted by a strong performance against the Philadelphia Phillies. He has a .323 batting average and has been a key player for the Braves.
Is Braves' Michael Harris II producing NL MVP-type campaign? originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
A late scratch last Friday against the Philadelphia Phillies, Michael Harris II sat on the bench, resting his strained left quad. The Atlanta Braves center fielder didn't sit long.
Pinch-hitting in the sixth inning, Harris connected on a two-run double, fueling the Braves to a 5-3 victory at Truist Park. Before serving as designated hitter and going 0-for-3 during Sunday's series-clinching win over the Phillies, Harris collected eight hits and nine RBI in his previous 13 at-bats.
As a first-time father, Harris continues to foster early NL MVP aspirations. One of the game's best defenders is developing into a consistent offensive force.
Harris entered Tuesday's series-opening matchup against the visiting Detroit Tigers tied for eighth in the league with a .323 batting average and .360 on-base percentage.
Harris broke out offensively during a 26-game span last season, leading the league in hits, batting average and total bases from July 22 to August 18.
This season, he's emerging as one of the top two-way performers on a contending club.
With the birth of Michael Harris III earlier this month, the father's game continues to rise. The fifth-year major leaguer established career highs in games played (160), hits (152), home runs (20) and RBI (86) last season.
Michael Harris II has a .323 batting average and a .360 on-base percentage, ranking him tied for eighth in the league.
In his recent game against the Phillies, Harris pinch-hit for a two-run double and contributed to the Braves' 5-3 victory.
Yes, Michael Harris II is fostering early NL MVP aspirations due to his strong offensive and defensive performances this season.
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In 2026, Harris' bat-to-ball skills helped fuel a highly-ranked lineup. Entering Tuesday's series opener against the visiting Detroit Tigers, the Braves ranked first in runs (166) and second in batting average (.274) and slugging percentage (.453).
Slowed by injury, Harris struck out twice Sunday, the first time he was called out on strikes in nine games, spanning 31 at-bats.
Considering it's still April, the Braves (20-9), winners of four of five, paced the NL East by seven games and appear to be in cruise control while the last-place Philadelphia Phillies and New York Mets continue to skid out of contention.
If Harris remains healthy and productive and the Braves retain their division advantage, can the new father produce an MVP-type campaign?