Spring is in the air, as pitchers and catchers reported on Friday in Orlando for the Braves. And not a day in, we already have some positive news coming from the manager. David O’Brien of the Athletic tweeted that even though players officially reported today, Mike Soroka has already thrown six side sessions in Florida. And most importantly, “No restrictions” for one of the Braves top prospects.
#Braves officially just had pitchers & catchers report today, but already about 25 pitchers throwing off mounds and many been here for several days. So they've in effect been working out most of the week. Soroka has thrown 6 side sessions in FLA, Snitker said. No restrictions
— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) February 15, 2019
No restrictions on #Braves' Soroka, who missed much of season with shoulder inflammation. He's done a regular offseason throwing program and no issues in early side sessions in camp.
— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) February 15, 2019
Soroka made his debut on May 1st last year and stifled the Mets, going six strong while allowing a single run in the win. He went on to make five starts for the Braves before being hitting the DL with shoulder inflammation. Rightfully, the organization acted cautiously and kept him out for the remainder of the season – even if he would have been a wonderful piece to have over their eventual playoff run.
That time to rest looks to have paid off. There were whispers about whether the Braves might continue to be cautious with Soroka and turn him into primarily a relief arm this season. But hearing “no restrictions” and that he has been throwing all offseason sure sounds like he is a full-go in the competition for a starting rotation spot. And if there is an early season favorite for that final rotation spot, it has to be Soroka, whose poise on the mound stood far ahead than that of the other prospects competing for the opportunity.