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Atlanta Braves Andrew McKirahan Talks About Season, Suspension, and Getting Back With His Teammates

By Jeff Schafer

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The Atlanta Braves claimed relief pitcher Andrew McKirahan off waivers on April 1, 2015 to add an extra left-handed arm to the bullpen.  He made three appearances and had a 4.15 ERA with the Braves before he was slapped with an 80-game suspension after he tested positive for a banned substance under MLB’s drug program.  The 25-year-old tested positive for the drug Ipamorelin, which releasees growth hormone.

Wanting to put this situation in the past, and because he’s an extremely nice guy, McKirahan agreed to answer a few questions for us.

Tomahawk Take: After the Marlins placed you on waivers in late March, what was the feeling/emotions you had and where were you when the Atlanta Braves called?

Andrew McKirahan: I was in the Marlins clubhouse when I received the call from the Braves front office that they had claimed me off waivers.  My family and I were so grateful and excited for this new opportunity! Crazy things can happen in the business of baseball and I feel appreciative of anybody that’s given me an opportunity in this game.

More from Tomahawk Take

TT: You were able to pitch 4.1 innings for the Braves before receiving the 80-game suspension. What did that news do to you and how did you take it?

McKirahan: All of that will soon be in the past and I’m just looking forward to being back with my teammates and helping the Braves any way I can.

TT: Talk a little about what you’ve been up to since the suspension? Have you been working out, throwing, everything needed to get back on the mound?

McKirahan: The Braves have been very supportive during this process and I’ve been in Orlando at the Spring Training facility.  I fully participate with the Extended Spring Training groups where I have been able to remain sharp in all aspects of the game. I have also used this opportunity to fine tune my pitching, volunteer in the community, and have tried to be a positive role model for the younger players in Orlando.

TT: Have you spoke with the organization about your return? Will you go through a minor league assignment or go straight to Atlanta after the 80 days?  

McKirahan: It’s my understanding that I could go on assignment for a couple of weeks prior to being activated somewhere around July 20th.  I don’t know the details yet but hope to have more information in the coming weeks.

Apr 19, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Atlanta Braves relief pitcher Andrew McKirahan (52) throws a pitch during the seventh inning in a game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre. The Atlanta Braves won 5-2. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports

TT: How has the Atlanta Braves treated you through this process?  And I guess not just the Braves organization…I think fans are curious what goes on during a suspension like this…is there constant communication, do you feel still a part of the team, etc?

McKirahan: The Braves have been professional in every sense of the word and continue to support me.  I’m very fortunate to be able to work with dedicated and experienced Braves coaches and staff in Orlando.

TT: How is your arm, will you be in good shape at your return and what’s your goals on the rest of the 2015 season?

McKirahan: My arm feels great!  This has given me time to improve myself physically and mentally, both on and off the field.  The strength and conditioning training staff has been tremendous in their efforts to help me improve and maintain my strength, stamina, and recovery on a daily basis.   My goal is to take one day at a time, stay healthy, and help put my team in the best situation for success.

TT: With the Atlanta Braves bullpen struggling like they have in recent weeks, what would you tell fans to expect when you return?

McKirahan: I look forward to doing everything I can to encourage and support my teammates.  I’ll work to improve myself every day with the goal of bringing a championship back to Atlanta.

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