Braves’ Reynaldo López’s Initial Tests Clean After He Leaves Start Due to Shoulder Tightness
Atlanta Braves News
Atlanta Braves Starting pitcher Reynaldo López left his start against the Miami Marlins on Tuesday night after just two innings due to right shoulder tightness. López allowed two runs on two hits and two walks while striking out three batters. He threw 35 pitches, 22 for strikes. After the game, López said he felt some discomfort in his shoulder during his warm-ups and it worsened as the game went on. He said he hopes to make his next start, but he will be evaluated further in the coming days.
The Braves have not yet announced a corresponding roster move, but López could be placed on the injured list if his injury is deemed to be serious. The Braves are already without several key players due to injuries, including Ronald Acuña Jr., Ozzie Albies, and Mike Soroka. The Braves are hopeful that López’s injury is not serious and that he will be able to return to the rotation soon.
Braves’ Rotation Options
If López is placed on the injured list, the Braves have several options to replace him in the rotation. One option is to promote Kyle Wright from Triple-A Gwinnett. Wright has been one of the Braves’ best minor league pitchers this season, with a 3.12 ERA and 1.08 WHIP in 11 starts. He has also struck out 72 batters in 62.1 innings pitched. Another option is to move Ian Anderson to the rotation and insert Bryce Elder into the bullpen. Anderson has been a starter for most of his career, but he has made two relief appearances for the Braves this season. Elder has been a starter for most of his career, but he has made two relief appearances for the Braves this season.
The Braves could also choose to sign a free agent pitcher. There are several veteran pitchers available, including Matt Harvey, Mike Fiers, and Homer Bailey. However, it is unclear if any of these pitchers would be a significant upgrade over the Braves’ current options.
Conclusion
The Braves are hopeful that López’s injury is not serious and that he will be able to return to the rotation soon. However, if he is placed on the injured list, the Braves have several options to replace him. The Braves are confident that they have the depth to overcome López’s absence and continue to compete for a playoff spot.
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