Max Fried and Ozzie Albies Land on Injured List, Braves Call Up Dylan Dodd
The Atlanta Braves have been dealt a significant blow as they placed All-Star pitcher Max Fried on the injured list due to left forearm neuritis. Fried, who felt discomfort while warming up for Tuesday’s All-Star Game, has been a cornerstone of the Braves' pitching rotation this season.
"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," Fried explained. "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."
Despite initial hopes that the discomfort was temporary, Fried’s condition persisted. "Took the day off after the game to travel home. 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," he added.
The Braves are optimistic given that tests revealed no structural damage. However, the timing is far from ideal as they are pushing to secure their spot in the postseason. To fill the gap left by Fried, the Braves have called up left-handed pitcher Dylan Dodd from the minors.
This season, Fried has posted a 7-5 record with a 3.08 ERA, a 1.16 WHIP, and has struck out 95 batters while walking 34 in 108 innings. His absence will be keenly felt, especially considering he was the runner-up for the Cy Young award in 2022.
Ozzie Albies's Injury Woes Continue
The Braves face additional challenges with second baseman Ozzie Albies heading to the injured list following a hand and wrist injury sustained during the ninth inning of Sunday's game. Manager Brian Snitker succinctly summed up the team’s sentiments: "It's not good."
Albies had been contributing significantly to the Braves' offensive efforts, boasting a .255/.308/.403 line with eight home runs in 89 games before the injury. His presence in the lineup will be missed as he has been an integral part of their infield defense and offensive production.
This isn’t the first time Albies has faced injury setbacks this season. He missed ten days in April due to a toe fracture, and now with the hand and wrist issue, the Braves will have to adapt quickly to cover his absence.
Braves’ Pitching Depth Tested
With these key players sidelined, Atlanta will rely heavily on their remaining pitchers and some new faces. The rotation will include Chris Sale and Reynaldo López, along with newly called-up Dylan Dodd, veteran Charlie Morton, and Spencer Schwellenbach.
Fried’s injury, specifically forearm neuritis, involves the irritation or compression of the ulnar nerve. While his tests have shown no structural damage, rest and rehabilitation will be crucial for his return to form.
Season Outlook
Despite these setbacks, the Braves are still in a strong position, holding the top Wild Card spot in the National League with a 54-44 record. Their depth and versatility will be tested as they navigate the remainder of the season without two of their star players.
The Braves have shown resilience through numerous adversities this season. Ronald Acuña Jr. suffered an ACL tear in 2023, and Spencer Strider underwent Tommy John surgery in 2024. These injuries have necessitated a 'next man up' mentality that will once again come into play with the recent absences of Fried and Albies.
The weeks ahead will be critical for the Braves as they aim to clinch a postseason berth. The performances of their fill-ins and the speedy recovery of their injured stars will be pivotal in maintaining their competitive edge.