Braves leadoff batter Jorge Soler replaced on NLDS roster after positive COVID-19 test

The Atlanta Braves will be without leadoff hitter Jorge Soler for Game 4 of the National League Division Series against the Milwaukee Brewers on Tuesday.

Soler tested positive for COVID-19 and was replaced on the roster by outfielder Cristian Pache, MLB announced two hours before first pitch. Pache can remain on the postseason active roster until Soler is approved to return from the COVID-19 related injured list.

Atlanta leads the best-of-five series, 2-1, and can clinch a spot in the National League Championship Series with a win at home on Tuesday.

The Braves, who will have Charlie Morton on the mound, released an updated lineup with shortstop Dansby Swanson leading off. Guillermo Heredia replaced Soler in the starting lineup and is batting eighth while playing center field. Joc Pederson moved over to right field where Soler was slated to play. Adam Duvall is in left.

Soler was 1-for-11 with a double and two walks during the three NLDS games against the Brewers. He belted 14 of his 27 homers in 2021 after joining the Braves at the trade deadline. Posting a .358 on-base percentage after the trade, he took over the leadoff role in a potent Braves lineup.

Pache, a strong defender but unproven hitter, was 4-for-22 during the Braves' 2020 postseason run. He played in each of the seven games against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the NLCS.

The Braves are coming off a 3-0 shutout of the Brewers in Game 3 on Monday.