The Braves take on the Cardinals in the second game of a three-game set after last night went about as ugly as possible
Mike Foltynewicz looked like a AA pitcher once again over 4.2 innings, allowing eight runs. His velocity remains down, and his offspeed stuff continues to get crushed. It’s about time for him to experience an extended stint in the minors to get the kinks worked out.
Ender Inciarte also exited the game with a lower back injury. Although, for most fans that is music to the ear because it only means one thing – Austin Riley is coming to Atlanta. The club has not yet confirmed the move, but it has been reported by every significant source around the Braves. The 22-year-old has mashed 15 homers already in AAA Gwinnett – most of which have come in the last couple of weeks.
Riley will likely get the start in left field tonight and for the foreseeable future while Inciarte is out with an injury. The Braves center fielder is expected to hit the Injured List in a corresponding move. Johan Camargo will continue to serve as a utility man off the bench.
That is not the only reason for Braves Country to be giddy about tonight. Mike Soroka takes the bump for the sixth time this season. The 21-year-old has pitched at a Cy Young level thus far, featuring a WHIP and ERA just north of one. Soroka pounds the strike zone with an impressive repertoire of pitches, and every time he toes the rubber, the Braves except to leave the park with a win.
His opponent will be Michael Wacha, who has made seven less than impressive outings. He still totes a 3-0 record despite his 5.35 ERA, walking way too many batters and giving up taters left and right. In 37 innings, Wacha has already allowed 22 walks and seven home runs. The Braves offense hasn’t exactly been stroking it of late, so hopefully, a healthy dose of walks and meatballs will flip the script.