I’ve talked extensively about how I believe the Braves have one of the best rotations in baseball, but unfortunately, the stats haven’t backed that up so far. Some of that has to do with Charlie Morton‘s slow start, who finally looks to be turning the corner as we approach June; however, most of it has to do with the abysmal efforts from the men who have occupied the fifth spot in the rotation.
Tucker Davidson, Bryce Elder, Kyle Muller and Huascar Ynoa have combined for nine outings as #Braves’ fifth starter.
After tonight, that spot in the rotation (Jesse Chavez’s game as opener excluded) has allowed 32 runs in 35 2/3 IP. That’s an 8.07 ERA.
— Cory McCartney (@coryjmccartney) May 24, 2022
The even less promising aspect is none of these guys seem to be finding a groove in Gwinnett either. It’s evident that Davidson and Muller both need to work on their control before being relied on again as starters at the major-league level. The same can be said for Ynoa, who is boasting a 6.04 ERA in five starts since being demoted back to AAA, and Elder, who had a 6.6 BB/9 in four starts with the Braves.
This is a hole that must be patched up for Atlanta to make a run at the division. Thankfully, they have an ultra-talented option that could turn it into a strength rather quickly. As I talked about earlier today, it’s time for the Braves to turn to Spencer Strider, who has thrived in every role they’ve put him in thus far. It may take him a few weeks to get stretched out, but it’s never been more obvious that he is their best option to fill the void.
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Photo: Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire
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