The Atlanta Braves will promote Allan Winans from Triple-A Gwinnett to make his MLB debut as a starting pitcher on Saturday. The 27-year-old right-hander has a 2.81 ERA over 102.2 innings in Triple-A this season. The Braves have been dealing with injuries to their pitching staff but have maintained effectiveness. Winans will be making his debut in the second game of a series against the Milwaukee Brewers.
The Atlanta Braves have recalled right-hander Michael Soroka from Triple-A Gwinnett to start against the Miami Marlins. Soroka, who missed almost three seasons due to injuries, was previously recalled by the Braves this season but was sent back to Triple-A after struggling in two starts. However, he has since performed well in Triple-A, earning a 2-0 record with a 1.42 ERA. The Braves also selected the contract of infielder Charlie Culberson and optioned catcher Chadwick Tromp to Triple-A.
The Atlanta Braves have acquired right-handed pitcher Ben Heller from Tampa Bay in exchange for international bonus-pool money. Heller has been optioned to Triple-A Gwinnett and will serve as depth for the organization. The Braves designated outfielder Nick Solak for assignment to create room on the 40-man roster. Heller has pitched in 31 major-league games over parts of four seasons, all with the Yankees, and has a 2.59 ERA over 31-1/3 innings pitched.
The Atlanta Braves have optioned pitchers Ian Anderson and Bryce Elder to Triple-A Gwinnett, reducing the number of players in major league camp to 50. This move comes as a surprise as both were among the favorites to win the 5th starter spot out of Spring Training. However, neither player impressed coaches with their performance so far. The move doesn't rule out the possibility of either being called back up to Atlanta before a 5th starter is needed, but it also means Dylan Dodd or Jared Schuster could win the job.