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Prado headed back to The Bigs
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PEARL, Miss. - The Atlanta Braves' offense could use a lift. Martin Prado says he's ready to provide it.

Prado went 1 for 5 in the final game of his rehab assignment with Double-A Mississippi and is expected to join the major league club on Friday before a series against the Washington Nationals.

Prado played eight games in the minors, including six at Triple-A Gwinnett. He was a combined 5 for 26 at the plate.

"One day I'll feel good and the next day I'll be sore," Prado said. "But I'm making progress."

Prado has been out of the lineup since June 8 while recovering from a staph infection in his right leg.

His arrival should bolster the Braves' inconsistent offense, especially after third baseman Chipper Jones was recently put on the 15-day DL with a tear in the medial meniscus of his right knee. Prado, a 2010 National League All-Star, was hitting .277 with eight homers and 33 RBIs.

"He'll be here tomorrow," Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez said during the team's workout at Turner Field on Thursday. "Great reports. Yesterday, I talked to (Double-A manager) Rocket Wheeler and he was running good. Just make sure his legs are OK and he's playing well."

Prado made an error during Thursday's night game, bobbling a ground ball, and said the adjustment to third base might take some time. He spent most of the first half of the season playing left field.

"I'm always excited to get Martin back," Jones said. "He's one of our intensity guys. Not to mention, he's an All-Star."

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