How a Former 1st-Round Draft Pick Fits into the Braves 2024 Lineup

The 2024 Atlanta Braves season is right around the corner and their roster continues to take shape. On March 21, Braves manager Brian Snitker informed former first-round draft pick Forrest Wall he’s made the Opening Day roster. Despite being in his 10th professional season, Wall’s MLB experience is relatively limited, with just 15 games under his career belt—all with Atlanta in 2023. But after a productive Spring Training, the 28-year-old might have more to prove during the regular season.

The outfielder brings a unique blend of skills to the team, with his speed as his greatest asset. Throughout his career, Walls has showcased his base-stealing prowess, tallying an impressive 52 stolen bases in each of the past two seasons at Triple-A. His speed makes him a valuable pinch-running option but also gives him value as a depth outfielder piece.

Forrest Wall Led the Braves in Spring Training

Wall has hit .308 with 3 home runs and 10 RBI in camp. It was good enough for him to tie for the team lead in spring training. He’s put his speed on the basepaths on full display, successfully stealing three bases in four attempts. However, Wall’s role with the team remains somewhat uncertain. With the recent addition of Adam Duvall, the Braves need for a primary backup outfielder has diminished. That could potentially limit Wall’s playing time in the process. He will likely be used as a versatile reserve, called upon for defensive replacements or as a pinch-runner late in games, at least to start the season.

Despite his aspirations to establish himself as a regular MLB player, Wall’s path to consistent playing time may be challenging given the current makeup of the Braves roster. While he will begin the season on the MLB roster, a few possibilities remain. For one, he could see more regular at-bats with the Triple-A Gwinett. That will provide him with valuable playing time to further hone his skills and make a case for a more significant role with the Braves in the future.

Walls Wins Opening Day Roster Spot

Wall can use his speed to his advantage, which helped him steal 52 bases in the past two seasons at Triple-A. When he came to Atlanta’s organization before 2023, his role was usually as a pinch-running option. They did out Wall on their postseason roster to serve that purpose. But he shows signs he can contribute in different ways. As the Braves prepare to open the 2024 season in Philadelphia, the role of Forrest Wall has the potential for an intriguing subplot.

It’s not easy to crack a roster of the Braves caliber. Although former first-round picks are always intriguing, especially after a productive spring. Wall played minor league ball for the Colorado Rockies, Toronto Blue Jays and Minnesota Twins before the Braves called upon to the majors. Wall finally reached his goal in time for the season, when the Braves kick things off against the Philadelphia Phillies. This marks the first he’s going to experience being on an Opening Day roster.