Injury Blow for Braves as Martín Pérez Heads to Injured List

Pérez Out with Back Injury

The Atlanta Braves are facing a tough situation ahead of the postseason. Left hander Martín Pérez is set to go on the 15 day injured list due to lower back inflammation. This leaves the team short of starting options just as the playoffs approach.

Manager Walt Weiss confirmed that Pérez is unlikely to return before the National League Championship Series. Pérez has been a key player this season, posting a 9-9 record with a 3.04 ERA across 26 starts. He has pitched 142 innings this year, which is his highest total since his All-Star season with Texas in 2022.

Pitching Options Wear Thin

This injury is a setback for the Braves, who are already missing other starting pitchers. Bryce Elder is currently on the injured list recovering from knee surgery on Sept. 8. Elder, who also made 26 starts this season, is expected to miss three to four weeks.

Additionally, Reynaldo López is sidelined with right shoulder discomfort. López started 13 games this season but currently has no set timetable for his return to action.

With these injuries, the Braves will have to rely on a heavily altered rotation for the National League Wild Card Series. Chris Sale, who is 14-9 with a 2.16 ERA, will lead the line. He will likely be followed by Tyler Mahle, who stands at 7-10 with a 3.81 ERA, and Grant Holmes, who has a 10-5 record and a 3.47 ERA. If the Braves manage to advance to the National League Division Series, rookie JR Ritchie could step in as a fourth starter. Ritchie has a 1-4 record and a 4.79 ERA in his 10 starts.

Next Man Up Mentality

Despite the setbacks, manager Walt Weiss remains positive about his team's depth. He believes this is a chance for other players to step up and make a name for themselves.

Weiss stated that while the situation is not ideal, these moments often create great stories. He added that it is business as usual for the squad, and they will keep marching on.