In an unexpected blow to their pitching rotation, the Atlanta Braves have placed All-Star pitcher Max Fried on the injured list due to left forearm neuritis. Fried felt the discomfort during his warm-up session for Tuesday’s All-Star Game, which led to his precautionary exit. The news is particularly concerning for a team already grappling with injuries to key players.
Fried’s Setback
Reflecting on the incident, Fried explained, "Before the All-Star Game, I was warming up like I normally do and doing some arm circles. Felt something and didn't think much of it. In this game, you feel things all the time. Normally they go away. Didn't feel like I was in any jeopardy of really hurting myself." However, after taking a day off to travel home, Fried realized the discomfort was persistent. "Came in, played catch and still was feeling it. At that point, knew I probably should say something if I wasn't going to be able to make my start. Got tests done, everything structurally looks great. Just irritated a sensory nerve, not one of the major muscle functioning nerves. Just going to let it calm down and hopefully be back soon."
The Braves can't afford to lose such a critical member of their roster. Fried has a season record of 7-5, with a 3.08 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, and 95 strikeouts against 34 walks in 108 innings. His achievements include being the runner-up for the Cy Young award in 2022, making his absence all the more significant. While Fried undergoes recovery, the Braves have called up left-handed pitcher Dylan Dodd from the minors to help fill the gap.
Albies' Injury Adds to Braves' Woes
Further compounding the Braves' injury woes, second baseman Ozzie Albies also heads to the injured list after suffering a hand and wrist injury during the ninth inning of Sunday’s game. Manager Brian Snitker’s comment on Albies's condition was succinct and concerning: "It's not good." Albies had been posting a .255/.308/.403 line with eight home runs in 89 games this season before the injury. This setback follows an earlier spell on the injured list in April, where a toe fracture kept him out for ten days.
Braves Face Uphill Battle
With these critical players sidelined, the Braves find themselves relying heavily on their pitching staff, including Chris Sale, Reynaldo López, Charlie Morton, and the newly called-up Dylan Dodd. Spencer Strider’s history of undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2024 raises concerns about the durability and longevity of their rotation. Additionally, Ronald Acuña Jr.’s ACL tear in 2023 still echoes in the team's memory.
Hold on to the Wild Card Spot
Currently, the Braves hold the top Wild Card spot in the National League with a commendable 54-44 record. Yet, the latest injuries cast a shadow over their aspirations. The resilience of the remaining squad and the performance of the summoned talent from the minors will be crucial in determining whether the Braves can sustain their playoff drive.
Forearm neuritis, the condition affecting Fried, involves the irritation or compression of the ulnar nerve. While initial tests have shown no structural damage, the Braves are taking no chances. The focus now lies on letting his forearm rest and heal fully to avoid any further complications.
The race for the playoffs is heating up, and the Braves must navigate these choppy waters with caution and tenacity. The coming weeks will be a test of their depth and resilience, as they strive to keep their postseason dreams alive amid these significant setbacks.