Atlanta Braves: Why is Mike Foltynewicz still at alternate site?
The Atlanta Braves have issues in their rotation, but Mike Foltynewicz still has yet to receive another look this year.
The Atlanta Braves have struggled to find consistent starters this season. Eleven different pitchers have taken a turn in the rotation thus far in 2020, with ten of them getting at least three starts. Should Cole Hamels return from the Injured List, he will only add to that list.
The one pitcher in that group who has not received three starts is Mike Foltynewicz. His only start of 2020 came on July 27, when he allowed six runs on four hits and four walks over his 3.1 innings. While he struck out three batters, Foltynewicz also allowed three home runs.
With the abbreviated summer camp and pitchers not being able to return to game shape quickly enough, some struggles were to be expected. But the Braves did not wait for Foltynewicz to turn his season around, or even get a second chance. He was designated for assignment and eventually sent to their alternate training site, seemingly never to return.
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Meanwhile, the Braves gave Robbie Erlin seven outings before designating him for assignment. They traded for Tommy Milone, who lasted three outings before being placed on the Injured List. Kyle Wright is still getting chances.
Foltynewicz? Absolutely nothing. It was understandable for the Braves to be concerned given his decrease in velocity during his one outing, but the way his outing was handled was drastic. However, he has reportedly gained weight while in Gwinnett, with his velocity having returned as a result.
And yet, Foltynewicz does not appear to be a part of their plans this season. The Braves seemingly did not attempt to trade him at the deadline, which would have indicated a return, but nothing has happened. Foltynewicz could help the Braves rotation issues, but they refuse to give him another look.
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The Atlanta Braves have issues with their rotation, and Mike Foltynewicz remains at their alternate training site. He deserves to get another look this year.