BREAKING: Braves makes another 2 important spring training roster moves

The Atlanta Braves may experiment with their pitching staff during the 2025 season, with several positions potentially changing, which could give some of the team’s younger pitchers a chance later on. However, for two specific players, that opportunity isn’t happening just yet.

Right-handed pitchers Domingo Gonzalez and Rolddy Munoz, both from the Dominican Republic, are being sent to the Triple-A Gwinnett Stripers, according to the team’s X account. This brings the Braves’ spring training roster to 46 players, leaving them a couple of weeks to finalize their 26-man roster for Opening Day.

Both Gonzalez and Munoz should benefit from more time in the minors to develop their skills. Gonzalez posted a 4.91 ERA and a 1.91 WHIP in 3 2/3 innings, while Munoz had a 3.38 ERA in 2 2/3 innings. At 25 and 24 years old, respectively, they are likely to make an appearance in the majors soon, possibly in 2025.

Given the unpredictable nature of most bullpens, both pitchers should get chances to prove themselves and earn a spot on the MLB roster. While the Braves will monitor their progress, much of the focus is currently on the team assembled by general manager Alex Anthopoulos, who is aiming to compete for a playoff spot this season.

Braves prepare for what could be another tight race to October

The National League, as a whole, looks tough on paper, continuing the trend of recent years, with the NL East standing out as particularly challenging. The Philadelphia Phillies are eager to bounce back after an early playoff exit in 2024, the New York Mets are looking to build on their successful NLCS run with Juan Soto now in the fold, and the young, promising Washington Nationals should prove competitive.

Carving out a path to October baseball will be tough, especially with the Braves dealing with recent injury issues. They barely made the postseason last year, and that was with Chris Sale exceeding expectations by winning the NL Cy Young and the NL pitching triple crown. Additionally, Reynaldo Lopez performed far better than expected, posting a 1.99 ERA over 26 games. The likelihood of either player replicating those performances seems unlikely.

However, this might not be a problem. If Sale can be reliable and Lopez solid, manager Brian Snitker will likely be content. That’s because flamethrower Spencer Strider is set to return from 2024 elbow surgery, and Spencer Schwellenbach is coming off a strong rookie season (3.35 ERA and 127 strikeouts in 21 starts).

Still, in case things don’t go according to plan, pitching depth will be crucial. This is where Domingo Gonzalez and Rolddy Munoz could step in. Hopefully, they stay sharp in Gwinnett, ready for their chance.