The Braves made several roster moves on Monday. Robbie Erlin was released, Pablo Sandoval signed a minor league deal, and Sean Newcomb was optioned in favor of starter Touki Toussaint. The release of Erlin closed the book on a wildly unsuccessful signing that brought about considerable criticism of the organization. It is unclear how Sandoval will figure into the Braves’ roster plans down the stretch, but he certainly has the experience to provide necessary leadership during a pennant race. His skill may be diminished but hopefully he can bring something to the table. Toussaint was awful during his start on Monday, so his stay in Atlanta is likely to be short-lived.
Braves News
Orioles dismantle Touki, Braves fall 14-1
Yikes. Big yikes. The Orioles absolutely embarrassed the Braves on Monday, knocking Touki Toussaint around early and continuing the onslaught against Luke Jackson. Starters not named Soroka, Fried, or Anderson have been problematic all season, and Monday was certainly no exception. Freddie Freeman hit a home run, but it didn’t matter. The Braves got smoked and the pitching was at its absolutely worst, which is saying something this season.
Braves release LHP Robbie Erlin
Robbie Erlin was not a good pitcher for the Braves. You still hate to see someone lose their job, but this move was always going to be a reality unless the left-hander suddenly learned to throw 97 MPH. His command and stuff simply were not good enough to be effective at the major league level.
Braves sign Pablo Sandoval to minor league deal, per report
The jokes and memes almost write themselves, but Sandoval still has the capability to bring something to the table for this Braves team. His presence should be entertaining if nothing else, though he could conceivably never leave the alternate site. It is just a minor league deal after all.
New No. 1 leads Rookie Power Rankings
Ian Anderson finds himself in the seventh spot of these updated rookie rankings.
MLB News
Judge, Stanton expected back this week
The Yankees expect a couple of renowned sluggers to rejoin their lineup this week.
8.82 ERA to NL Cy candidate? Believe it
Corbin Burnes is making a VERY strong case for the Comeback Player of the Year.
Hoskins has UCL injury; no IL for Realmuto
The Phillies lose Rhys Hoskins.