Brewers' Ryan Braun: Removed for precautionary reasons Thursday

Braun was removed from Thursday's game by manager Craig Counsell for precautionary reasons, Todd Rosiak of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports.

Analysis:

A lengthy rain delay in Atlanta may have forced Counsell's hand Thursday as he opted to replace Braun with Keon Broxton in the outfield. Braun has battled some lower-back issues of late, so it made sense for Counsell to bring in a defensive replacement rather than risk having Braun's back tighten up on him. Given that Braun was removed as a precaution, he figures to be back in the lineup for Friday's tilt.