You could see this coming from a mile away. The Braves have decided to waive Kevin Gausman, who was later claimed by the Reds – Jeff Passan of ESPN reported moments ago.
Right-hander Kevin Gausman is headed to the Cincinnati Reds, sources tell ESPN. He was claimed off waivers from the Atlanta Braves. The 28-year-old has one more season remaining until he hits free agency following 2020 though could be a non-tender candidate this winter.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) August 5, 2019
The former #4 overall pick out of LSU was acquired by the Braves before last year’s trade deadline and pitched admirably in ten starts, going 5-3 with a 2.87 ERA.
Coming into the year, many viewed him as the team’s #2 starter, but he quickly showed signs of regression and found himself rehabbing in the minor leagues. After some promising starts on the farm, the Braves gave him another opportunity, and he was spectacular in his first start back, tossing seven innings of one-run ball. However, back-to-back unimpressive outings left the Braves with no other choice but to waive him.
In his place, the Braves will bring back Mike Foltynewicz, who has been in AAA for over a month. He will start against the Twins tomorrow night, according to Mark Bowman.
Mike Foltynewicz will be recalled to start against the Twins tomorrow night.
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) August 5, 2019
Folty has been equally as bad as Gausman in the majors this year, toting a 2-5 record with a 6.37 ERA in eleven starts. Although he has shown some promise in Gwinnett since being demoted, and after his spectacular 2018, deserves another opportunity.
With that said, the leash will be short on Foltynewicz. If he can’t prove in a couple of starts that he has turned the curve, he will be back in Gwinnett in the blink of an eye. The Braves recently promoted Ian Anderson to AAA, and he could be next in line if Folty cannot turn things around.