Get Ready for Grannies

Yep, Joey Devine is headed back to the Major Leagues. He was one of those recalled yesterday as rosters expanded. Catcher Brayan Pena and 1B/OF Scott Thorman were also recalled. Infielder Willy Aybar and 1B/OF Brian Jordan were activated from the disabled list along with starter Kyle Davies. With the prospect of having to play two double headers back to back, the rosters couldn't have expanded at a better time.

Devine was pitching really well at double-A Mississippi. Through 11 innings spanning six games, he gave up only one run (on a solo homerun no less). He did walk four batters, but only gave up two hits while striking out 20! Much of what I've heard and read about his problems last year lead me to believe that he was both pitching injured and pitching with a tired arm. He has spent several months on the disabled list this year and should be more rested than many of the pitchers currently in the bullpen. If he can continue the success he found at double-A and rekindle the success he had at NC State, then he could serve as a valuable part of the Braves bullpen during the stretch run. Of course, let's all hold our breath if he somehow finds himself in a bases loaded situation. The key for Devine will be to control his walks; those are what have gotten him into trouble in the past.

If the Braves do play four games in two days, it will be interesting to see if Jeff Francoeur can extend his consecutive game streak. That much baseball in such a compressed time could really take its toll on Frenchy.

Update [2006-9-2 15:55:45 by gondeee]: Apparently Anthony Lerew was also recalled from triple-A Richmond today.