JUST IN: Braves Makes Move Fans Have Been Begging for After Devastating Injury
The Atlanta Braves quickly realized something was off when Reynaldo Lopez was pulled early from his recent start against the Washington Nationals. Just a day later, Lopez was placed on the 15-day injured list due to right shoulder inflammation.
“I didn’t really know what was happening,” López said following Tuesday night’s game. “The first pitch went out, and I thought it was 95, and I look up and it was 89. That took me by surprise. That’s something I wasn’t expecting.”
Both the Braves’ training staff and players noticed the sudden drop in Lopez’s velocity, raising immediate concerns. Lopez, who has experience as both a starter and reliever, transitioned into a full-time starter this season. So far in 2024, he’s already pitched 128.2 innings, more than doubling his total from the 2023 season.
Braves make the right call after Reynaldo Lopez injury
Reynaldo Lopez entered Tuesday’s game with the lowest ERA in the majors among starters with a minimum of 100 innings pitched, boasting a stellar 2.03 ERA. Averaging over five innings per start and being a favorite for the NL Cy Young Award, his injury is a significant blow to the Braves, who have already faced considerable challenges this season. While the hope is that Lopez will only miss a few weeks, the team is forced to adapt in his absence.
In response, the Braves made several roster moves, promoting relief pitcher Daysbel Hernandez and recently signed infielder Cavan Biggio. Hernandez, who has garnered attention from fans urging his promotion, has been solid in limited appearances this season, allowing just two runs over 11 innings in 10 outings. In Triple-A Gwinnett, he has maintained a 2.59 ERA over 41.2 innings, further showcasing his potential. With Lopez sidelined, Hernandez and Biggio will provide the Braves with much-needed reinforcements.
Braves roster move comes with another difficult decision looming
Atlanta’s bullpen has been inconsistent at times. Luke Jackson, for example, managed to avoid being cut this time, thanks to a recent stretch of scoreless outings. He hasn’t given up an earned run since August 25 and has gone without allowing one in seven of his last eight appearances. The addition of Hernandez should provide extra middle-relief support alongside Williams, who, according to the stats, has unexpectedly improved his season.
A potential long-term replacement for Lopez, if needed, is Ian Anderson. A former NL Rookie of the Year contender, Anderson has a 3.54 ERA and 40 strikeouts in just over 38 innings in Gwinnett.
As we approach late September, both Anderson and Hernandez seem like strong roster candidates. The Braves will need all the help they can get to keep their playoff chances alive, with or without Lopez.