The Braves are getting some reinforcements, as closer Raisel Iglesias looks to make his long-awaited 2023 debut. Ehire Adrianza is scheduled to hit the injury list, and top prospect Braden Shewmake is set to make his MLB debut:
Iglesias was one of the best trade deadline acquisitions in recent memory; the Angels essentially gave him to Atlanta. After arriving in Atlanta, Iglesias posted a microscopic 0.34 ERA and 0.83 WHIP over 26.1 innings with 30 strikeouts. His 1.52 FIP indicated that this performance wasn’t a fluke. AJ Minter has been better lately, but he isn’t a closer and has had some troubles in the 9th inning. I’m very excited to have a pitcher as talented as Iglesias back, especially with some tough opponents on the docket. Dylan Dodd will be heading back to Gwinnett after a so-so spot start in Miami, which was to be expected.
Braden Shewmake’s arrival is the big story, as he was rumored to be in contention for an opening day roster spot before being sent down to Gwinnett along with Vaughn Grissom. Grissom got the call before Shewmake, and although his bat has been decent, his defense has left a lot to be desired. Shewmake has had an okay season in AAA, posting an OPS of .738 with five home runs. We’ll see if he can follow in the footsteps of Michael Harris II and Spencer Strider and give this team some juice.
I’m glad Travis d’Arnaud is starting his rehab assignment, as he has a history of concussions and the Braves understandably took their time getting him back into the mix. Hopefully, he’ll be back up soon. As great as Sean Murphy has been, he needs some rest.
Welcome to the show, Braden!
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