The Atlanta Braves have faced significant injuries this season, losing their top pitcher and hitter to season-ending injuries midway through the year. Despite this, the team has managed to perform well, thanks to other players stepping up. The bullpen, too, has remained strong despite the absence of veteran reliever AJ Minter, who has been injured for some time.
Now, according to Justin Toscano, Minter is set to return. He has completed his rehab assignment in the minor leagues and has been activated on the roster, with right-hander Daysbel Hernández being optioned to make room. Minter had been out since late May due to a left hip impingement but allowed just one earned run over three innings during his rehab assignment.
The Braves’ bullpen has been effective even without Minter, with contributions from Pierce Johnson, Joe Jimenez, Jesse Chavez, and Dylan Lee. Closer Raisel Iglesias continues to excel. Minter, who struggled with home runs this season but still maintained a 2.95 ERA before his injury, will further strengthen the bullpen upon his return.
The Braves’ season has been marred by injuries, including to their star players. Ace Spencer Strider was ruled out for the year early in the season due to an elbow injury requiring Tommy John surgery, and reigning NL MVP Ronald Acuna Jr. suffered another ACL injury, this time to his other knee, ruling him out for the season.
Despite these setbacks and other injuries within the lineup, the Braves have remained competitive, holding a 46-36 record and staying in the Wild Card race despite relinquishing the NL East lead to the Philadelphia Phillies. This mirrors their 2021 situation, where key trades by General Manager Alex Anthopoulos, including the acquisitions of Adam Duvall and Jorge Soler, led to their championship run. The Braves hope for similar success this season.
