The Atlanta Braves’ bullpen continues to face setbacks. On Tuesday, the team revealed that Tyler Matzek, a reliever, has been sidelined for 15 days due to inflammation in his left elbow. To replace Matzek, the Braves have called up Ray Kerr, a left-handed reliever, to join the active roster.
The #Braves today recalled LHP Ray Kerr to Atlanta and placed LHP Tyler Matzek on the 15-day injured list, backdated to May 5, with left elbow inflammation.
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) May 7, 2024
Matzek, who missed the entirety of the 2022 season due to Tommy John surgery, hasn’t had a smooth start this season. In his 11 appearances, he’s conceded 16 hits and 11 runs across just 10 innings. His fastball velocity, averaging 93.9 mph this season, is similar to 2022 but slightly down from 2021. Over his last eight outings, Matzek has allowed 14 hits and 11 runs in a mere 6 2⁄3 innings.
Ray Kerr was acquired from the Padres during the offseason. He’s pitched in nine games for Gwinnett, holding a 4.50 ERA, 6.41 FIP, and a 2.93 xFIP across 14 innings, with 22 strikeouts and only five walks.
This marks the bullpen’s second injury setback in less than a week, following Pierce Johnson’s placement on the 15-day injured list due to elbow inflammation over the weekend.
