Braves place Reynaldo Lopez on the IL

The Braves were hoping Reynaldo Lopez wouldn’t have to be placed on the IL, which is why they waited so long to make this move. But in the end, they chose to play things safe with the first-time All-Star, a move everybody should understand.

Lopez hasn’t pitched more than 66.0 innings since 2019. Fatigue down the stretch was always going to be a concern; getting him right for the final six weeks and a potential postseason run is the right course of action.

Bryce Elder was splendid his last time out against Milwaukee. He’ll start for the Braves tomorrow against the same Brewers team. Depending how that outing goes, Elder could get another opportunity next week. But if it goes awry, don’t be surprised if Ian Anderson or AJ Smith-Shawver gets a crack. Both are in Gwinnett and fully stretched out, patiently waiting for their turn.