Ian Anderson, the starting pitcher for the Atlanta Braves, is still recovering from Tommy John surgery. Via David O’Brien of The Athletic, Anderson recently gave an injury report and disclosed a significant modification to his pitching action.
“Ian Anderson stated that he is doing well in his recovery from TJ surgery and plans to return around the middle of the summer, but he is not setting a deadline for it. I inquired of the #Braves right-hander if he was still throwing over-the-top pitches, and he responded that he had slightly altered his delivery and decreased his angle, O’Brien posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Anderson, 25, made an impressive debut in the major leagues. In six starts during the postponed 2020 season, he pitched to a remarkable 1.95 ERA. In twenty-four games in 2021, he struggled to a 3.58 ERA. However, Anderson had a dismal 5.00 ERA in 22 starts in 2022 and was sent to the minor levels for a while as a result.
Braves: When Ian Anderson returns, what part will he play?
Anderson intends to resume throwing at some point this summer, though he has not established a specific return date due to injuries. But it’s unclear what position he’ll have when he gets back.
Right now, the Braves’ rotation is predetermined. Max Fried and Spencer Strider will serve as the pitching staff leaders.
In addition, Charlie Morton and Bryce Elder will be back for the Braves, who this past offseason acquired Chris Sale from the Boston Red Sox.
Additionally adding depth are AJ Smith-Shawver and Reynaldo Lopez. Thus, Anderson does not currently have room.
By midsummer, of course, a lot can change. Unfortunately, injuries do happen, but the Braves’ rotation should benefit from having a pitcher like Anderson close to returning.
One has to wonder if Atlanta will entertain the idea of a trade if everyone is well by the time Anderson returns.
Anderson has potential for only 25 years old. Atlanta might be able to trade him for prospects or additional MLB players. It should be mentioned that there have been no rumors of the Anderson trade concept ever happening, therefore it is strictly speculative.
It will be interesting to see Ian Anderson’s and the Braves’ future developments.
