Reynaldo López’s injury during Sunday’s game has jeopardized the Braves’ season and playoff hopes. This puts pressure on the team to find new pitchers before the trade deadline.
- The Braves starting pitcher exited Sunday’s game with forearm tightness, raising concerns about his availability for the rest of the season.
- López’s injury increases the Braves’ urgency to seek pitching reinforcements before the trade deadline.
- Despite numerous injuries, the Braves remain in the NL Wild Card race, but López’s status could significantly affect their postseason chances.
Reynaldo López’s Forearm Tightness Worries Braves
Braves manager Brian Snitker wanted to enjoy their 9-2 win over the Mets on Sunday. Matt Olson hit home runs in two games in a row, and the Braves solidified their lead in the National League Wild Card standings.
However, the focus was on Reynaldo López, who left after three scoreless innings because of right forearm tightness. Just as things seemed to be looking up, the Braves faced another injury.
“It sucks,” Olson said. “It kind of feels like every week or every other week, we’re getting some bad news. So definitely hoping for the best here.”
López went back to Atlanta for more tests. Even if the MRI shows no serious damage, he might still need to go on the 15-day injured list. The Braves hope he only needs a short rest.
Another Setback in a Tough Season
López didn’t show any pain during his 57 pitches. His last fastball was his fastest, at 97.4 mph. Marcell Ozuna noticed López looked uncomfortable and told the coaches after the third inning.
“You think of when [the injuries are] going to stop,” Braves third baseman Austin Riley said.
“Hopefully, it’s nothing serious and the results come back positive and he doesn’t miss much.”
López has the best ERA in the MLB at 2.06. He became a starter this year after being a reliever. There was some worry about him handling a full season as a starter, especially since he didn’t pitch more than 66 innings in the last two years. This year, he has pitched 104 2/3 innings, with extra rest for many of his starts.
“You can never be too careful when they get tightness,” Snitker said.
“That’s probably why he’s already at the airport or in the air right now. You want to be proactive.”
Braves’ Trade Plans Before Deadline
Besides waiting for news on López, the Braves need to figure out their strategy before the trade deadline. They need an outfielder and might need a pitcher due to López’s uncertain status. Despite many injuries, the Braves are 1 1/2 games ahead for second place in the NL East.
Chris Sale, Max Fried, and López were All-Star Game picks two weeks ago. Fried is now injured, and López might join him. The Braves’ playoff hopes depend on these top pitchers being healthy. Fried is doing well and might return soon.
If López’s injury is serious, the Braves might avoid aggressive trades. But if he only needs a short break, this rest could help him be strong for the postseason.
Meanwhile, the Braves hope Olson continues his hot streak. He has hit home runs in the last two games, improving his performance.
Braves Eye Trade Market Amid López’s Injury & Playoff Push
López has been a star for the Braves this year, with a 7-4 record and over 100 innings pitched for the first time since 2019. After playing for several teams, López signed a three-year, $30 million contract with the Braves this offseason.
Atlanta’s injury issues include key players like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ozzie Albies being out. Michael Harris II is also out until mid-August. The Braves are looking for trade options, with potential targets like Luis Robert Jr. and Garrett Crochet.
The Braves are currently leading the NL Wild Card race. López’s injury adds pressure to secure new players before the trade deadline. The team’s season has been a mix of wins and injuries, but they hope for good news about López and a strong finish to the season.
Stay updated on López and all things Braves as the season continues.
