Braves’ Jordan Walden: Injury Update
Aug 10, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves manager
Fredi Gonzalez(33) removes relief pitcher
Jordan Walden(52) from the game after Walden is hit by a line drive off his pitching hand against the Miami Marlins during the ninth inning at Turner Field. The Marlins defeated the Braves 1-0. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Braves’ reliever Jordan Walden is expected to be available tonight as the Washington Nationals come to Turner Field for another three game set with the struggling division rival.
Walden exited the game early in the 9th inning of the August 10th game after being hit on the right hand, and suffering a contusion. Listed as “Any Day” on the Braves injury list, Jordan’s x-rays were thankfully negative, and he played catch on August 13. By all accounts, he appears ready to go.
Walden has been an integral part of Atlanta’s bullpen this year, and for the most part has been lights out when doing relief work. In 39.2 innings pitched, Jordan has an ERA of just 2.50, with just 12 BBs and 47 Ks in that span. He even stepped in for Craig Kimbrel in one game and got a save, though he struggled.
With the Braves’ relief woes this season in terms of injured players, the Atlanta bullpen has stepped up and done a spectacular job for the NL East’s first place team. David Carpenter did the fill-in work for Walden and pitched very well himself, allowing only 1 run and 1 hit in just over 2 innings of relief.
Just yesterday, manager Fredi Gonzalez was asked about Walden’s progress, and said…
"We’ll see where he’s at today, but he’s progressing real well,” manager Fredi Gonzalez said. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s available the whole weekend."
As the Braves continue their work putting a definitive kink in any hope the Nationals have, it will be great news if Walden will be available throughout the series. We’ll find out soon.