For Mauricio Dubon, It’s All About Opportunity

When Mauricio Dubon was traded to the Atlanta Braves from the Houston Astros this past offseason, nobody knew what to expect.

Dubon was expected to serve a role as a utility player. In January, projected starting shortstop Ha-Seong Kim tore a tendon in his right finger after slipping on ice in his native country, South Korea.

In Spring Training, Dubon posted a .311 batting average with a .754 OPS, earning the starting shortstop position for Opening Day.

For him, his time with the Braves has been all about taking advantage of the opportunities provided. Dubon rewarded the organization’s belief in him by batting .339 in April with two home runs and a .923 OPS.

His performance gave manager Walt Weiss no choice but to keep him in the lineup when Kim returned, leading to 26 starts in the outfield as Atlanta dealt with injuries to Ronald Acuña Jr. and Michael Harris II while taking advantage of Dubon’s versatility. After hitting .222 in May, Dubon is off to a strong start in June by homering in the last two games of the Toronto Blue Jays series, including a clutch three-run home run that helped clinch the series.

Whether it’s delivering a clutch two-out hit with runners in scoring position or buying dinner for the team’s grounds crew as a sign of appreciation, Dubon has earned respect throughout the organization on and off the field.

“He’s really been a huge part of this early success,” explained Weiss.

“It’s nice having him in the clubhouse,” said pitcher Grant Holmes. “Great teammate, great guy.”

The appreciation between Dubon and the organization is a two-way street, as he has enjoyed watching the team grow together since the start of the season.

“From everybody, from the staff to my teammates, it’s been really fun,” stated Dubon after their 7-3 win over the Blue Jays.. “It’s been pretty fun watching everyone grow up as a family.”

An unfortunate injury created the initial opportunity for Dubon, which he has made the most of it through his play on the field and his impact in the clubhouse.

The Braves currently sit at 42-21 with an 8.5-game lead over the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League East due in large part to the stability provided by Dubon’s ability to find numerous ways to contribute on a nightly basis.

If the team hopes to snap its five-year drought without a postseason series win, contributions from players like Dubon will be as important as those from their household names.