Injury Report: Jonny Venters

March 26, 2013; Lakeland, FL, USA; Atlanta Braves relief pitcher

(39) throws a pitch during the fifth inning against the Detroit Tigers at Joker Marchant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Left-handed Atlanta Braves reliever Jonny Venters had to voluntarily leave Tuesdays game against the Tigers with what is being called a left elbow sprain.  This was his first appearance since March 13th when he had another rough outing walking four hitters.  At that time, Braves skipper Fredi Gonzalez just said he needed some time off and never diagnosed the injury.  After today, it seems apparent that something isn’t right.

In todays game, Venters faced five batters giving up a leadoff home run, a walk and a triple.  Then he threw a wild pitch that went to the backstop screen allowing the third run of the inning to cross the plate.  Following the next pitch, Venters signaled to the dugout which lead Gonzalez to remove him without hesitation.

He has already had Tommy John surgery once and an elbow injury isn’t something to take lightly.  As more information surfaces, we’ll stay on top of this subject.  But as it looks now, Venters will presumably open the 2013 season on the disabled list.