The Atlanta Braves have recently made significant roster changes, headlined by the placement of All-Star pitcher Max Fried on the injured list due to left forearm neuritis.
Injury Strikes Fried During All-Star Game
Max Fried experienced discomfort while warming up for Tuesday’s All-Star Game. "Before the All-Star Game, I was warming up like I normally do and doing some arm circles. Felt something and didn't think much of it," Fried explained. "In this game, you feel things all the time. Normally they go away. Didn't feel like I was in any jeopardy of really hurting myself."
After the All-Star Game, the discomfort did not subside. "Took the day off after the game to travel home. Came in, played catch and still was feeling it. At that point, knew I probably should say something if I wasn't going to be able to make my start," Fried continued. Upon examination, Fried received some optimistic news. "Got tests done, everything structurally looks great. Just irritated a sensory nerve, not one of the major muscle functioning nerves. Just going to let it calm down and hopefully be back soon."
Fried's Stellar Season Interrupted
This injury cutoff has interrupted an impressive season for Fried, who holds a 7-5 record with a 3.08 ERA, a 1.16 WHIP, and 95 strikeouts against 34 walks over 108 innings. The 2022 runner-up for the Cy Young Award remains a crucial component of the Braves’ pitching rotation.
To mitigate Fried’s absence, the Braves have called up left-handed pitcher Dylan Dodd from the minors. Dodd joins an already formidable armory of pitchers including Chris Sale, Reynaldo López, Charlie Morton, and Spencer Schwellenbach. The Braves hope that this depth will help maintain their current standing in the National League's top Wild Card spot, boasting a 54-44 record.
Another Blow: Ozzie Albies Injured
The pitching staff is not the only area of concern for the Braves. Second baseman Ozzie Albies also finds himself on the injured list after suffering a hand and wrist injury during the ninth inning of Sunday’s game. Manager Brian Snitker succinctly summarized Albies’ condition: "It's not good."
Prior to the injury, Albies was putting together a solid season with a .255/.308/.403 line, including eight home runs in 89 games. This latest setback adds to Albies’ injury woes, as he previously missed ten days in April due to a toe fracture.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
The Braves have a history of overcoming adversity, necessitating the reliance on their roster depth and player development systems. Ronald Acuña Jr.'s ACL tear in 2023 and Spencer Strider's Tommy John surgery in 2024 are recent reminders of the team’s resilience in the face of major player injuries.
As Fried’s condition is monitored and Albies begins his recovery, the Braves will need to rely on their depth to maintain their competitive edge. Both injuries, while significant, have not shown indications of long-term structural damage, allowing for a focus on proper recovery and timely contributions from other players.
The consistency in the Braves' system has proven vital, with call-ups like Dylan Dodd ready to step into crucial roles when called upon. The team’s ability to adapt and overcome injury concerns will be pivotal as they strive to secure their position in the playoffs. For fans and players alike, the hope is that Fried and Albies can return stronger and healthier, contributing to Atlanta's quest for another deep postseason run.