Report: Braves Will Welcome Former High Profile Player Back Against Phillies
As we wait to see what happens next for Austin Riley, who was evacuated from yesterday’s game after getting hit on the wrist by a 97 MPH fastball, we do have some encouraging news on the injury front. Reynaldo Lopez will return off the injured list to play the Phillies on Tuesday after struggling with forearm discomfort.
Reynaldo López will start for the Braves Tuesday
— Justin Toscano (@JustinCToscano) August 18, 2024
Reynaldo López, who is 7-4 with a 2.06 ERA this season, earned his first All-Star selection after transitioning from a relief pitcher to a full-time starter for the first time since 2019. However, with the added workload, there were concerns about potential fatigue as the season progressed. This was evident after the All-Star break, and he was pulled after just three innings in his July 28th start against the Mets.
Fortunately, López has not sustained any serious injuries, but it will be interesting to see how the Braves manage him for the remainder of the season. While he could be valuable as a third or fourth starter, especially with A.J. Minter out for the year, López might also provide a boost to the bullpen if fatigue becomes an issue.
López is set to face NL Cy Young contender Zack Wheeler on Tuesday night at Truist Park. On Wednesday, Max Fried will pitch against Aaron Nola, and Spencer Schwellenbach will take the mound on Thursday for the series finale, with the Phillies’ starter yet to be announced.
The Braves are seven games behind the Phillies for first place in the NL East as the new week begins. If Atlanta hopes to pull off another miracle, like they did in 2022, and extend their streak of six consecutive division titles, they’ll need to sweep the Phillies this week to keep things interesting down the line.