Braves Face Setback as Injuries Plague Key Players
The Atlanta Braves have had quite the rollercoaster season, and the recent string of injuries to key players has only added to their challenges. All-Star pitcher Max Fried, arguably one of the most dependable arms in the Braves' rotation, has been placed on the injured list due to left forearm neuritis. The issue surfaced when Fried felt 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. 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 shared, reflecting the unpredictable nature of injuries in professional sports.
To fill the void left by Fried's absence, the Braves have called up left-handed pitcher Dylan Dodd from the minors. Fried’s stats this season have been impressive—holding a record of 7-5, with a 3.08 ERA, a 1.16 WHIP, and 95 strikeouts against 34 walks in 108 innings. His performance has been a cornerstone for the Braves, especially considering he was the runner-up for the Cy Young award in 2022. Fortunately, initial tests show no structural damage to Fried's arm, a silver lining for the hopeful return of the star pitcher.
"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, indicating that while the diagnosis is relatively benign, it will still require a cautious approach.
As if Fried’s situation wasn’t enough, the Braves are also contending with the loss of second baseman Ozzie Albies, who sustained a hand and wrist injury in the ninth inning of Sunday's game. The severity of Albies’ condition has compelled the team to place him on the injured list as well.
Albies’ performance this season has been a mixed bag; he's posted a .255/.308/.403 line with eight home runs in 89 games. He also missed 10 days in April due to a toe fracture. The accumulation of injuries has undoubtedly impacted his on-field presence, something Braves manager Brian Snitker did not mince words about. "It's not good," Snitker commented on Albies's condition.
The Braves are currently clinging to the top Wild Card spot in the National League with a 54-44 record. However, staying ahead in the fiercely competitive league will be a daunting task with two pivotal players sidelined. The team has had its fair share of injuries over the last few seasons, including Ronald Acuña Jr.'s ACL tear in 2023 and Spencer Strider's Tommy John surgery in 2024.
Given the current state of affairs, the Braves are leaning on a diverse pitching lineup that includes seasoned veterans like Chris Sale and Reynaldo López. Additionally, the responsibility extends to emerging talents such as Dylan Dodd, Charlie Morton, and Spencer Schwellenbach. The blend of experience and youth will be critical in offsetting the impact of Fried’s and Albies’ absences.
Forearm neuritis, the condition affecting Fried, involves the irritation or compression of the ulnar nerve. It’s reassuring to note that Fried's tests indicated no structural damage, which should allow for a relatively swift recovery. The Braves and their fans are undoubtedly eager for his return as they aim to solidify their postseason ambitions.
The season has been a testament to the Braves’ resilience, and with key players out, it’s another opportunity for the rest of the roster to step up. The next few weeks will reveal much about the character and depth of this team as they navigate a challenging stretch with their eyes set firmly on securing a playoff berth.