Braves: Ynoa to pitch a live game next week, Anderson looking to throw off the mound soon

The Braves continue to get healthier. As Travis d’Arnaud approaches a return date, the Braves appear to be close to getting two of their best pitchers in 2021 back as well.

Ynoa, Anderson stepping up their rehab throwing programs: pic.twitter.com/fecOnbdbyh

— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) July 22, 2021

Ynoa was fantastic until he broke his hand punching the dugout in a bad start against Milwaukee. Over 8 starts, he is 4-2 with a 1.052 WHIP and 3.02 ERA. Without including that last start in Milwaukee, Ynoa has a 2.24 ERA. He’s only allowed more than two earned runs in two of his eight starts. Ynoa appears to be on the same early-August timeline that we got a few weeks ago. With Atlanta’s bullpen struggling and no natural rotation spot available, perhaps Ynoa could pitch out of the ‘pen for a few weeks while he gets warmed back up. The Braves still need to add some bullpen arms, but Ynoa is also an option.

Getting Anderson back is huge; he has arguably been the steadiest presence in Atlanta’s rotation all season. I wasn’t worried about him, considering he’s only dealing with shoulder inflammation. Hopefully, he only misses two starts.