The Atlanta Braves have encountered a significant setback as they placed All-Star pitcher Max Fried on the injured list due to left forearm neuritis. This development comes after Fried experienced discomfort while warming up for the All-Star Game on Tuesday.
"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. 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," Fried stated.
Despite initially downplaying the pain, Fried recognized its persistence upon returning. "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. 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 elaborated.
In response to Fried's absence, the Braves have called up left-handed pitcher Dylan Dodd from the minors. Dodd's call-up is a tactical move to bolster the Braves' rotation in the midst of a challenging season. Fried’s record this season stands at 7-5, with a 3.08 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, and 95 strikeouts against 34 walks in 108 innings. His absence will undoubtedly leave a void, considering his stellar performance, highlighted by being the runner-up for the Cy Young award in 2022.
Albies Hits the Injured List
In a further blow to the Braves, second baseman Ozzie Albies also heads to the injured list following a hand and wrist injury sustained during the ninth inning of Sunday's game. Albies's absence comes as a considerable loss; he had a .255/.308/.403 line with eight home runs in 89 games this season. This injury follows his 10-day hiatus in April due to a toe fracture.
Manager Brian Snitker conveyed his concern about Albies's injury, succinctly stating, "It's not good."
Despite these setbacks, the Braves hold the top Wild Card spot in the National League with a 54-44 record. Their roster, though bruised and battered, continues to show resilience amid adversity.
Pitching Adjustments and Roster Depth
To compensate for the absences, the Braves will rely on a blend of experience and emerging talent. The rotation now features pitchers like Chris Sale, Reynaldo López, Dylan Dodd, Charlie Morton, and Spencer Schwellenbach. Navigating through these injuries will require strategic management and stellar performances from these key players.
In the backdrop, notable challenges include the season-ending ACL tear of Ronald Acuña Jr. in 2023 and Spencer Strider's Tommy John surgery in 2024. Navigating such complications demands not only managerial acumen but also contributions from every level of the organization.
Forearm neuritis, which Fried is currently dealing with, involves the irritation or compression of the ulnar nerve. The good news for Braves fans is that tests have shown no structural damage to Fried’s arm, offering hope for a swift return pending recovery.
The Braves now face a crucial period that will test the team's depth and resilience. With key players sidelined, the contributions from the rest of the roster will be essential in maintaining their contention in the competitive National League landscape.