Freeman to start in first game for Braves

ATLANTA -- The NL East-leading Atlanta Braves have put touted prospect Freddie Freeman in the starting lineup for his major league debut.

Freeman was among the players called up Wednesday, when teams can expand their rosters for the final month of the regular season. Atlanta manager Bobby Cox decided to start the 20-year-old against the New York Mets as the Braves go for their fifth straight win.

Cox says he has full confidence in Freeman, who batted .319 with 18 homers, 35 doubles and 87 RBIs at Triple-A Gwinnett. He came into the season ranked as one of the Braves' top prospects along with outfielder Jason Heyward, who's had a strong rookie season and was voted to start in the All-Star game.

First baseman Derrek Lee is getting the night off for Atlanta.