In a significant blow to their rotation, the Atlanta Braves have placed right-handed starting pitcher Reynaldo López on the 15-day injured list due to inflammation in his right forearm. The move, which is retroactively dated to August 2, comes at a crucial time for the Braves, who are vying for a top spot in the National League.
This injury sidelines López, who last took the mound on July 28 against the New York Mets. Entering this season, López has been a crucial asset for the Braves, maintaining a stellar 2.06 ERA and a 3.18 FIP over 104 2/3 innings, along with racking up 102 strikeouts. His impressive performance earned him his first All-Star selection this season, making his absence even more impactful for the Braves’ pitching staff.
Braves Call Up Bryce Elder
In light of López's injury, the Braves have called up right-handed pitcher Bryce Elder from Triple-A. Elder is slated to start the series opener against the Milwaukee Brewers. This adjustment to the rotation is vital as the Braves aim to maintain their competitive edge and secure their top wild-card spot in the National League. Elder's performance will be closely watched, as each game carries significant weight at this juncture of the season.
Return of Max Fried
Meanwhile, the Braves recently welcomed back Max Fried after he missed more than a month due to forearm neuritis. However, Fried struggled in his first start back, facing difficulties against the Miami Marlins. The Braves will undoubtedly be hoping Fried can quickly regain his form and bolster a rotation that has been hit by injuries this season.
Internal-Brace Procedure for Spencer Strider
Adding to the Braves’ pitching woes, Spencer Strider underwent an internal-brace procedure to address a UCL tear. It is unlikely that Strider will pitch again in 2024, further stressing the need for other pitchers to step up in his absence. Strider's situation underscores the precarious nature of the Braves’ current pitching roster and the challenges they face as they push for postseason success.
Braves’ Current Standing
As of Monday, the Braves hold a record of 60-51, positioning them in the top wild-card spot in the National League. However, they are trailing the Philadelphia Phillies by six games in the National League East division standings. This margin underscores the importance of each game as the Braves strive to close the gap and assert dominance in their division.
López's presence has been instrumental for the Braves, and his absence will undoubtedly be felt. His exceptional performance this season has been a key factor in Atlanta’s success, and the team will need to find ways to compensate for the loss of their All-Star pitcher. With the postseason rapidly approaching, the Braves must navigate these challenges adeptly to maintain their playoff aspirations.
The Braves’ front office and coaching staff will be closely monitoring the situation, seeking any opportunities to fortify their roster amidst these setbacks. For now, all eyes will be on how effectively Bryce Elder can step into the rotation and how quickly Max Fried can find his rhythm. As Atlético looks to retain their competitive form, the contributions from every player will be pivotal in their quest to reach the postseason.