Braves infielder Jace Peterson has likely earned a 25-man roster spot and may serve as the team's starting second baseman until Jose Peraza is deemed ready for the majors, MLB.com reports.
"I'm just competing," Peterson said Wednesday. "Of course [being on the major league] roster is the goal for everyone here in camp. Thinking about all that kind of stuff, people tend to put a little extra pressure on themselves. Me, whenever I'm called on, I'm going to play. Hopefully, on opening day, that's where I'm at. That's the goal."
While not ready to name Peterson his starter at second base, manager Fredi Gonzalez has been impressed with the former Padre's versatility and athleticism.
"He's an athlete," Gonzalez said. "He gives you the ability to play in the middle of the diamond."
Peterson went 6 for 53 with the Padres in his first major-league season last year but also hit .307/.402/.447 with three home runs, 46 RBI and 16 stolen bases in 322 at-bats between Double-A and Triple-A.