Eric O’Flaherty Close to Returning and other Roster News
By Editorial Staff
Rookie Lefthander Jonny Venters has been carrying the load for the Braves in the bullpen ever since Eric O’Flaherty went down with a viral infection. O’Flaherty threw another bullpen session on Monday and the expectation is for him to pitch batting practice on Wednesday. If all of that goes well then he will head out on a rehab assignment and would be back in the Braves bullpen soon.
Injured starter Kris Medlen is scheduled to be re-evaluated this weekend after the club returns to Atlanta. Medlen will be re-examined by Braves team doctors as they try and determine whether or not he needs Tommy John Surgery. At any rate he is more than likely out for the season but if he doesn’t need surgery then he would most likely be ready once Spring Training begins next season.
Injured Second Baseman Martin Prado is stepping up the Baseball related activities while recovering from a broken Pinkie finger. He has been doing some throwing and hitting off of a tee as of late. Prado isn’t eligible to come off of the DL until August 15th and will have to pass some tests before he is cleared to play. His injury has provided Omar Infante the opportunity to play everyday. Infante is hitting .343 during his current 11 game hit streak.