The Braves may not make another splash before the trade deadline Tuesday, but they are going to improve significantly, beginning Monday.
The team announced A.J. Minter has been added to the active roster after being on the 15-day IL. Nicky Lopez, who the club acquired in a trade Sunday with the Royals, has also been added to the active roster.
In a couple of corresponding moves, AJ Smith-Shawver has been optioned back to Gwinnett, and Charlie Culberson has been designated for assignment.
The Braves bullpen learned a lot about itself over the last couple of weeks with so many arms on the IL. Joe Jiménez has emerged as a legitimate option in the late innings and so has Kirby Yates, while other arms, such as Collin McHugh, may no longer be considered in high-leverage situations. Getting Minter back is a massive addition, and an even more vital piece to the pitching staff is expected to return at the end of the week, as Max Fried is scheduled to start in Chicago against the Cubs.
Nicky Lopez also takes Charlie Culberson’s spot on the roster. Charlie Clutch is a fan favorite, but he was more of a placeholder who has only appeared in one game this season. Lopez can play all over the infield and provides elite defense, even if his bat leaves a lot to be desired.
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