The trade deadline just passed, and the Braves patched up most of their holes, but they could also have several reinforcements join them down the final stretch. Kirby Yates is very close to a return as he continues to rehab with the Gwinnett Stripers. I wouldn’t be surprised if we saw him within the next couple of weeks, and today, the Braves received two positive updates regarding a couple of former All-Stars, Mike Soroka and Ozzie Albies.
Albies began playing catch on Wednesday and will start other baseball activities soon. It’s still looking like a September return for him, but progress is progress. Meanwhile, Soroka will begin simulated games soon.
The update on Soroka is promising, but at this point, I highly doubt there’s any chance we see him this season. Everything he does moving forward should be focused on preparing for 2023. The Braves have enough starting pitching, and there’s not even a scheduled date yet for his rehab assignment. There’s no way the Braves are going to rush him into things.
Albies, on the other hand, will be a huge boost to this team down the stretch and into the playoffs. Orlando Arcia has filled in valiantly, but nobody can replace what Albies brings to the team — both on and off the field.
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