Alex Anthopolous made the right shots when trading for Brad Brach and Jonny Venters to give the bullpen a boost. However, injuries and inconsistency have still held back this unit’s full potential. With September officially here, the Braves can bring up more bodies, and many are expected to be joining the bullpen soon. A couple may surprise you.
Arodys Vizcaino, Brandon McCarthy and Jose Ramirez rehabbing with AAA Gwinnett
Brandon McCarthy throws two innings of a rehab stint tonight with Gwinnett. Arodys Vizcaino and Jose Ramirez will also throw an inning each at Triple-A Sunday. #Braves
— 680 The Fan (@680TheFan) August 31, 2018
Based on reports throughout the season, it sounded as if Arodys Vizcaino and Jose Ramirez would not be coming back this season. Now, it appears they will be getting back both. Vizcaino will immediately slide back into the closer spot, allowing the late inning group to all slide back an inning. This should make a huge impact in itself. Jose Ramirez may have looked bad at the beginning of the season, but it was clearly due to the injury that has now ended up sidelining him for essentially a full season. Do not forget, in 2016 and 2017, Ramirez was one of the Braves to relievers. Anything he offers at this point is just a bonus, but he could be a solid contributor if he is truly 100%. McCarthy is coming back for one last crack at the big before retirement. He will be looking at a reliever role with the Braves though now that they have filled their rotation.
Shane Carle about to return
Shane Carle has been a huge contributor for the Braves this season. He was basically unhittable in April but has been solid all season. He has made a few rehab appearances with Gwinnett and seems poised to return now with the roster expansion. This is great news for the Braves.
Three top prospects will join the team
Kyle Wright has been making relief appearances for Gwinnett, a clear sign the Braves are prepping him as a relief option for the Braves. Touki Toussaint and Bryse Wilson will be joining the team as well, but the Braves may use a 6-man rotation and switch the two on turns. It is yet to be seen, but all three of these elite options could be featured out of the bullpen this month.
The bad news
Peter Moylan experienced a setback while rehabbing, as he was expected to join the team in September. We wish him well, but considering the Braves moved him to the 60-Day DL, it is safe to say his season is over.