The Atlanta Braves have encountered significant challenges as they contend with injuries to two critical players. All-Star pitcher Max Fried has been placed on the injured list due to left forearm neuritis, which he experienced while warming up for the All-Star Game. In his absence, the Braves have called up left-handed pitcher Dylan Dodd from the minors, aiming to fill the gap in their rotation.
Max Fried detailed his experience, stating, "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." Despite his optimism, the discomfort 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," Fried concluded.
Fried's performance has been a cornerstone for the Braves, boasting a season record of 7-5, with a 3.08 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, and 95 strikeouts against 34 walks in 108 innings. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, especially as the team pushes for a strong finish to the season. Notably, Fried was the runner-up for the Cy Young award in 2022, underlining his importance to the Braves' pitching staff.
The Braves are also dealing with the loss of second baseman Ozzie Albies, who sustained a hand and wrist injury during the ninth inning of Sunday's game. Manager Brian Snitker minced no words about Albies's condition, stating, "It's not good." Before his injury, Albies contributed a .255/.308/.403 line with eight home runs in 89 games this season. This is not Albies's first setback of the year; he previously missed ten days in April due to a toe fracture, further complicating the Braves' season.
Despite these setbacks, the Braves hold the top Wild Card spot in the National League with a 54-44 record. Their ability to maintain this position will be tested as the team adjusts to their missing stars. The pitching staff will see increased reliance on pitchers such as Chris Sale, Reynaldo López, Charlie Morton, Spencer Schwellenbach, and the newly called-up Dylan Dodd. The Braves management clearly hopes that these moves will stabilize the rotation and mitigate the impact of Fried's absence.
Forearm neuritis, Fried's specific ailment, involves the irritation or compression of the ulnar nerve. While this condition can be concerning, the good news is that Fried’s tests have shown no structural damage. This diagnosis suggests that Fried might return sooner rather than later, though the Braves will proceed with caution to ensure their ace pitcher’s long-term health.
Adding to the list of injuries that the Braves have had to endure over the past season, Ronald Acuña Jr. tore his ACL in 2023, and Spencer Strider underwent Tommy John surgery in 2024. Both incidents forced the Braves to adapt and rely on different players to fill these critical roles. The resilience and depth of the roster will once again be tested as they navigate these latest setbacks.
As the Braves battle through a challenging phase in their season, the return of key players will be eagerly anticipated by both the team and their fans. The hope is for a speedy recovery and minimal further disruptions as they strive to maintain their position in the playoff race.