The Atlanta bullpen has been a concern all season. It appears that this concern may not be relieved in the near future. Though the pen was sufficient on Tuesday night the latest concern revolves around the right elbow of Rafael Soriano.
While it was originally believed Soriano was slated to be held out of action on Monday night (with Acosta filling the closer's role) manager Bobby Cox now claims a gimpy elbow was the actual culprit.
Here's what Rotowire has to say about the situation
"Soriano had soreness in his elbow after pitching on Saturday and Sunday, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports. "I'm just not taking any chances," manager Bobby Cox said about not making him available for Monday's game.
Spin: It was previously reported that the Braves were giving him the day off, but the report of elbow soreness is new and a concern after he missed time in spring training due to the same problem. While the ailment is likely minor, it's something to watch closely."
If you're a fantasy leaguer it might not be a bad idea to take a flyer on Acosta as he is likely to pick up a few saves along the way even if Soriano does not actually hit the DL.
As for last night's game, if there is such a thing as a good loss last night was one. Jair Jurrjens was able to go 7 strong innings while giving up 4 runs. That's not a terrible start for Coors field, especially for the 4th man in the rotation.
Further, because it was a road game the bullpen was only required to pitch one inning. Of course you ALWAYS want to win the game but lack of pen innings will be a benefit as we progress through the week. This is the longest road trip of the season. The Braves are currently 0-2 on this trip with 2 more games at Coors and then 3 more in DC.
1 comment:
I'm sure everyone knows by now but they moved Soriano to the 15 day DL because of elbow tendinitis. This could easily be a recurring problem throughout the season. Let's all hope for the best.
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