The only midseason addition that has been more valuable than Anthony Swarzak is Austin Riley. Simply put, Swarzak has been an absolute strikeout machine since he came to Atlanta. In what appeared to be a “meh” trade, the Braves acquired a key log in their bullpen when they shipped the injured and expiring Arodys Vizcaino as well as the struggling Jesse Biddle for his services. He has given up just a single earned run in 17 appearances as a Brave. Sheesh, Anthopolous must have a crystal ball that tells him when struggling veterans are ready to revive their careers. Swarzak has been this year’s Anibal Sanchez, just as a member of a unit that desperately needed a boost.
The unit as a whole has turned a corner ever since. They have been the best unit in the N.L. and perhaps the MLB since that date.
Unfortunately, it appears the Braves will be without his services for the time being. This afternoon, the Braves placed him on the 10-day IL with right shoulder inflammation.
Hopefully, with some rest, Swarzak can be at full health for the second half of the season. While his current statistics are unsustainable for any reliever, he will be a huge piece for the Braves down the stretch, as he has primarily been used in crucial situations on the mound.
Right-hander Chad Sobotka will assume his spot in the bullpen. After a dominant short stint in the bullpen at the end of 2018, Sobotka was everyone’s favorite to step up and take a larger role in the bullpen. Unfortunately, he has flip-flopped, but hopefully getting him back to the majors can get him in a groove.