The Atlanta Braves have sent pitcher Ian Anderson down to the minors, meaning a rookie is likely to be a part of the team’s Opening Day rotation. Anderson had been competing for a spot in the rotation despite being one of the top prospects in baseball.
Anderson, who made his debut with the Braves last year and was a key part of their playoff run, struggled this spring. In four starts, he had a 8.44 ERA and had given up 10 runs in 10.2 innings.
The decision to send Anderson to the minors may come as a surprise to some, but the Braves have a number of talented young pitchers who are ready to step up. One of those pitchers is Bryse Wilson, who made five starts for the Braves last year and has impressed in his five starts this spring.
Wilson has a 4.74 ERA this spring, but he has also struck out 17 batters in just 19 innings. That kind of strikeout potential could be a valuable asset for the Braves, who are looking to replace the production of departed starter Mike Soroka.
Another young pitcher who could make the rotation is Kyle Wright. Wright, who was a first-round pick in 2017, has struggled in the majors so far, but he has had a strong spring, posting a 2.84 ERA in four starts.
Regardless of who makes the rotation, the Braves are confident in their young pitchers. General manager Alex Anthopoulos has said that the team will not be looking to add a veteran starter before the season starts, meaning that the team will be counting on its young arms to step up.
For Braves fans, the decision to send Anderson to the minors may be disappointing, but it also shows the depth that the team has. With Wilson and Wright ready to step up, the Braves are in good hands as they begin their quest to return to the World Series.
Overall, the decision to send Anderson down to the minors is a reminder that even the best prospects need time to develop. With a talented group of young pitchers waiting in the wings, the Braves are well-positioned for the future, even as they face the challenge of replacing a key starter.
