Braves News
John Schuerholz stepping down as team president, will stay on as advisor
In an interview with the AJC, Braves' CEO Terry McGuirk indicated that Schuerholz would be stepping down as team president and in to a vice-chairman role which would have advisory responsibilities. His shoes will be filled with a different organizational structure as there will now be a president of business (Derek Schiller) and president of development (Mike Plant). Schuerholz will help advise these two men, but the move is certainly one away from the day-to-day operations of the team.
Mike Foltynewicz among others optioned to Triple-A Gwinnett at end of Spring Training
The flamethrower Mike Foltynewicz is full of promise and potential, however his arm injury has stalled his progress for quite some time. Frankly, that has shown in his Spring Training work. In 8.2 innings pitched, Foltynewicz tallied an 8.31 ERA, leading to his demotion to Gwinnett to open the season. Foltynewicz didn't seem to be too disappointed about the demotion, saying he knew he wouldn't be in playing shape when the fifth rotation spot came around on April 12th. Atlanta also optioned catchers Ryan Lavarnway and Blake Lalli, as those two will serve as the primary backstops for the Triple-A club.
Braves sign veteran outfielder Drew Stubbs for outfield depth
Atlanta has made yet another last-minute acquisition, as they have signed speedy outfielder Drew Stubbs to a minor league deal with an invite to the tail end of Spring Training. The move is significant for the outfield depth Atlanta currently possesses. With Francoeur already locked to make the Opening Day roster, the late addition of Stubbs could spell trouble for either Michael Bourn or Emilio Bonifacio and their futures in a Braves uniform.
Braves fall to Yankees 2-0 in tuneup for Teheran
Julio Teheran has shown that he may have an impressive season after exceptional performances in Spring Training, and that did not change in his final outing. Although the Braves fell to the Yankees 2-0, Teheran threw five solid innings, allowing four hits and punching out two batters. The potential ace for the club looks ready to make his third consecutive Opening Day start. In addition, the Braves also gave the ball to Eric O'Flaherty for his first appearance with the team. He looked solid and seemed as if he can be a solid, go-to option for Fredi Gonzalez, in an inning of work he gave up two hits.
Banuelos' injury concerns continue
The saga that is Manny Banuelos and his nagging elbow continues on to yet another day. In his Spring Training work, it has definitely been less than stellar allowing nine runs in 6.2 innings pitched. Banuelos underwent an MRI, and luckily for him and the club, no structural damage was discovered. For the time being, it is expected for Banuelos to spend time either in the minor leagues or on the disabled list in order to get back into playing shape.
MLB News
Yankees reliever Andrew Miller fractures wrist in Spring Training game
The Yankees were poised to have an unhittable bullpen trio of Dellin Betances, Aroldis Chapman and Andrew Miller. However, that aspiration will be halted temporarily as Miller sustained an injury in the Yankees spring training victory over the Braves on Wednesday. Atlanta prospect Williams Astudillo hit a line drive comebacker that nailed Miller in the wrist, which caused him to exit the game immediately. After undergoing an MRI, it was revealed that he sustained a chip fracture in his wrist. The next step that will be taken remains to be seen. However, he may miss significant time
Orioles release Miguel Gonzalez
Miguel Gonzalez had been a consistent contributor to the Baltimore Orioles throughout his career, posting a 3.45 ERA from 2012-2014. However, last season that changed as injuries led to a subpar season, tallying a 4.91 ERA with a 9-12 record. His below expected performance last season along with a 9.78 ERA in Spring Training were the driving forces for Baltimore to part ways with the veteran. He will be a hot commodity on the free agent market, as his services will be beneficial to a team in pursuit of a veteran.