Michael Harris II is a guy who’s quickly becoming a cornerstone for the Atlanta Braves. However, not without a few bumps along the way.
In 2024, Harris battled injuries that kept him sidelined for 50 games, and that absence, combined with a bit of bad luck at the plate (thanks to a lower-than-usual BABIP), meant his offensive numbers took a hit.
But here’s the thing—his glove? Absolutely elite.
Overcoming Injuries and Defensive Brilliance in 2024
Even with nearly a third of the season lost to injury, Harris still managed to post some eye-popping defensive metrics.
According to Baseball Savant, the 23-year-old racked up eight Outs Above Average (OAA), which is no small feat when you’re not playing a full slate of games.
And when you look at his success rate—94% on 255 defensive opportunities—it’s clear he’s not just good, he’s outperforming expectations by three percentage points. That’s the kind of defense you can’t put a price on.
The Catch That Defined a Season
And let’s not forget the moment. August 31st against the Phillies. You know the one. Harris sprinted full speed into right-center, leaped against the wall, and robbed what looked like a surefire extra-base hit.
He nearly tumbled over the fence and into the Phillies’ bullpen but somehow managed to hold on. It was the kind of play that makes you rewind and watch again—pure magic. So much so, in fact, that MLB Network crowned it the best defensive play of 2024.
Even Harris himself seemed a little surprised by the recognition, but anyone who’s watched him patrol center field knows it was well deserved.
Big Expectations For the Braves Centerfielder in 2025
With Spring Training for the 2025 season coming up fast, Harris is set to be a major factor for the Braves. Projections from FanGraphs’s Steamer have him pegged for a 5.0 fWAR season—potentially his best since his breakout rookie campaign in 2022.
If he can stay healthy, he’s got a real shot at hitting the coveted 20/20 mark—20 home runs and 20 stolen bases—while continuing to lock down the outfield with Gold Glove-caliber defense.
For the Braves, that’s exactly the kind of production they’re counting on as they chase another postseason run. Harris has all the tools—speed, power, and elite defense.
It’s just about putting it all together for a full season. If he does? Watch out because he could be one of the most exciting players to watch in 2025.
