However, one area that could potentially improve is the starting rotation. The Braves have plenty of talent at the top, but it may be worth giving younger options a shot over some of their veteran arms. Ahead of Wednesday’s game against the Chicago White Sox, Atlanta did just that.
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“The Braves today selected RHP James Karinchak to the major league roster and designated RHP Carlos Carrasco for assignment. The club also recalled RHP JR Ritchie to Atlanta and placed RHP Tyler Kinley on the 15-day injured list, backdated to June 8, with right elbow inflammation,” the Braves wrote on X.
The biggest move here is replacing Carrasco with Ritchie. Carrasco will likely sign another minor-league deal with the Braves and return when they need an extra arm, a system that both sides have grown comfortable with dating back to last season.The real question now is whether this call-up means Ritchie will get starts in the rotation or serve as a bulk arm out of the bullpen. Either way, it is an exciting move. Ritchie is Atlanta’s second-ranked prospect, and this marks his second stint at the big-league level.
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During his first stint, he was a reliable arm, allowing three runs or fewer in three of his first four starts. However, after a rough outing against the Miami Marlins in late May, he was optioned back down to Triple-A.
Still, Ritchie showed he can handle MLB competition, posting a 4.56 ERA overall and striking out 21 hitters in 25 2/3 innings. He also made history in his debut, becoming the first starting pitcher in franchise history to complete at least seven innings with seven or more strikeouts while allowing two or fewer runs.
It is unclear whether he will get the chance to start again, as the rotation is crowded. However, the Braves could send Grant Holmes to the bullpen to clear a spot if Ritchie thrives. There is also competition from Didier Fuentes, another young arm battling for a rotation spot.
It is a good problem to have though for Atlanta. He was their first-round pick in the 2022 MLB Draft and is still just 22 years old. The future in Atlanta is very bright.
