Bryson Stott returns to Phillies lineup against Braves, explains absence

Phillies infielder Bryson Stott was scratched from Friday’s lineup against the Braves for personal reasons but returned Saturday, starting at third base and batting seventh or eighth. Stott later announced that his wife had given birth to their third child, explaining the absence. The 28-year-old has provided steady production this season, batting .255 with 10 home runs and 61 RBIs while stealing 24 bases, and has handled a midseason transition from second base to third. His return came during a crucial series with Atlanta as Philadelphia pursues the NL East lead and a top-two playoff seed, though he has recently been in an offensive slump.