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Braves make roster move amid series with Reds

Originally posted on SportsTalkATL | By Chase Irle | Last updated Aug 1, 2025 11:41 AM ET

The Braves won an absolute thriller last night in what was one of the craziest games of the entire MLB season.

After Atlanta scored eight runs in the top of the 8th to take a commanding 11-3 lead, Cincinnati turned around and scored eight runs of their own in the bottom half of the inning. Eventually, the game went into extras, where the Braves were able to score the runner from second and get a save from Raisel Iglesias for the victory.

It was a wild affair that, while fun, was also a reminder of the state of Atlanta’s bullpen. Something they attempted to improve ahead of Game 2 of the series, optioning Dane Dunning to Gwinnett and activating Austin Cox.

The #Braves today recalled LHP Austin Cox to Atlanta after optioning RHP Dane Dunning to Triple-A Gwinnett following last night’s game.

— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) August 1, 2025

Dunning was the man that started the horrific 8th inning for the Braves last night, giving up five earned runs without recording a single out. Since the Braves acquired him, he owns a gaudy 14.29 ERA over four appearances.

In his place, Austin Cox rejoins the major-league roster. The lefty has actually been pretty impressive for the club when called upon this year, boasting a 2.25 ERA and remarkable 12.4 K/9 over eight innings. With the way things have been going for the Braves bullpen this year, this could be an extended opportunity for the 28-year-old that went to school just down the road at Mercer University.

This article first appeared on SportsTalkATL and was syndicated with permission.

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