After a demanding yet productive couple of days for the Atlanta Braves bullpen, they are receiving reinforcement today with the addition of Allan Winans. Winans could be called upon if Chris Sale encounters any issues during today’s game, similar to what happened with Spencer Strider and Max Fried in the previous two nights. Even if Sale performs well, Winans might still be needed, considering Tyler Matzek is the only bullpen member yet to appear in this series. Jesse Chavez and Dylan Lee, the longer relief options, are likely unavailable after their contributions in the comeback wins on Friday and Saturday. Raisel Iglesias has also pitched in the last two games, and it’s probable that the Braves will avoid using A.J. Minter, who threw 15 pitches yesterday, unless absolutely necessary.
Winans had a noteworthy season in 2023, posting a 0.5 fWAR in just 32 1⁄3 innings, including six starts. His 95 FIP- and 91 xFIP- were impressive considering his performance in Triple-A. The Braves are likely counting on his diverse pitching repertoire to keep opponents off balance if he’s called upon for relief duties. Even if he doesn’t excel in preventing runs, Winans can provide the team with the ability to pitch multiple innings and help navigate through the game.
The Braves will face the Diamondbacks in their series finale at 1:35 pm ET, with Chris Sale slated to start and hopefully avoid the struggles experienced by his fellow rotation members earlier in the weekend.
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