Injuries have crushed the Braves since the All-Star break. You could combine the IL with the Gwinnett Stripers and create a totally serviceable MLB team that might have a chance to make the playoffs. The good news, however, is two of the biggest names are nearing their returns. Dansby Swanson began his rehab start last night in Rome, and Austin Riley is scheduled to play their tonight as well.
Brian Snitker said yesterday, “If all goes according to plan,” Swanson will rejoin the Braves on the upcoming road trip. Well, so far, I would say things are going according to plan. The former #1 overall pick had three singles, a walk, and an RBI yesterday. His next step will be playing in the field, which he is expected to do tonight for at least half of a game.
"Just being able to be back is awesome to begin with." –@LieutenantDans7 @Braves Dansby Swanson finishes his first rehab start with @TheRomeBraves going 3-for-4 with 2 runs, an RBI & walk. He is expecting to play 5/6/7 innings at shortstop in Friday's game. pic.twitter.com/HsgOJ5aI7S
— Angela Moryan (@SidelineStormer) August 23, 2019
Based on where he’s at now, I’d say Swanson returning against the Mets this weekend is highly unlikely. The Braves then go out West to Colorado for a one-game makeup. There is no reason for him to be making that trip, but the following two-game set in Toronto appears to be the target date for Swanson’s return. The Braves took this slow, so hopefully, there are no setbacks.