The Atlanta Braves are facing significant challenges as they navigate the remainder of the season, with two key players, All-Star pitcher Max Fried and second baseman Ozzie Albies, heading to the injured list.
Max Fried Sidelined with Forearm Neuritis
The Braves have officially placed Max Fried on the injured list due to left forearm neuritis. Fried, who experienced discomfort while warming up for Tuesday’s All-Star Game, described the initial incident, saying, "Before the All-Star Game, I was warming up like I normally do and doing some arm circles. Felt something and didn't think much of it. In this game, you feel things all the time. Normally, they go away. Didn't feel like I was in any jeopardy of really hurting myself."
Upon returning home and continuing to feel discomfort, Fried sought medical evaluation. "Took the day off after the game to travel home. Came in, played catch and still was feeling it. At that point, knew I probably should say something if I wasn't going to be able to make my start. Got tests done, everything structurally looks great. Just irritated a sensory nerve, not one of the major muscle functioning nerves. Just going to let it calm down and hopefully be back soon," Fried explained.
This season, Fried has maintained a record of 7-5 with a 3.08 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, and has struck out 95 batters while walking 34 over 108 innings. His absence will undoubtedly be felt as the Braves strive to maintain their strong position.
Ozzie Albies Heads to Injured List
In another blow to the Braves’ lineup, second baseman Ozzie Albies suffered a hand and wrist injury during the ninth inning of Sunday's game. Manager Brian Snitker was concise in his assessment of Albies’s condition, stating, "It's not good."
Before his injury, Albies had posted a .255/.308/.403 line with eight home runs in 89 games this season. It’s worth noting that Albies also missed 10 days earlier in the season due to a toe fracture.
The Braves’ Response
In response to Fried’s injury, the Braves have called up left-handed pitcher Dylan Dodd from the minors. The team will also rely on a rotation featuring Chris Sale and Reynaldo López, alongside veterans such as Charlie Morton and promising talent like Spencer Schwellenbach.
The Braves currently hold the top Wild Card spot in the National League with a 54-44 record. Despite the setbacks, the team remains determined to push forward.
Injury History and Impact
The Braves' players have experienced significant injuries over the past few seasons. Ronald Acuña Jr. tore his ACL in 2023, and Spencer Strider underwent Tommy John surgery in 2024. These injuries have tested the team's depth and resolve, requiring them to adapt continuously.
Max Fried’s current condition, forearm neuritis, involves the irritation or compression of the ulnar nerve. The good news for Braves fans is that tests revealed no structural damage, offering hope for Fried’s return sooner rather than later.
As the Braves navigate these injuries, their focus remains on maintaining their competitive edge in the National League. While challenges persist, the squad’s depth and resilience will be critical to overcoming these mid-season hurdles.