Jonny Venters Still Awaiting Ruling From MLB

An expected ruling to Jonny Venters appeal of a four game suspension that was levied against him due to hitting Prince Fielder with a pitch never came on Wednesday. Executive Vice President for MLB John McHale heard the appeal on Tuesday. The Braves are hoping to see the suspension reduced.

Once a ruling comes down the Braves will be without both of their primary left handed relievers out of the bullpen. Eric O’Flaherty is currently on the disabled list after suffering from a viral infection that has sapped his strength. He has been cleared to begin throwing and the Braves will have to wait and see how quick his strength comes back.

When the suspension comes down on Venters, the Braves will be down to only Mike Dunn and closer Billy Wagner as left handed options out of the bullpen. With the ruling expected yesterday it would seem that it would probably for sure come today which would cause Venters to miss tonight’s series finale with the Nationals and at least the beginning of the Cincinnati series. Venters pitched a third of an inning in last night’s victory over the Nationals.