Braves Consider Placing Reynaldo López on Injured List

The Atlanta Braves are evaluating the possibility of placing pitcher Reynaldo López on the 15-day injured list due to shoulder discomfort, according to manager Walt Weiss. This decision comes as the team prepares for a series finale against the Cubs at Wrigley Field, with JR Ritchie set to be recalled from Triple-A Gwinnett to start the game.

López recently returned to the rotation after missing August with a left knee injury but struggled in his last two outings, allowing a total of 11 runs in less than eight innings. His performance has seen his earned run average rise to 4.54 for the season. The Braves' rotation has faced challenges throughout the year, with only Chris Sale and Grant Holmes providing consistent contributions.

If placed on the injured list, López would miss the remainder of the regular season and the upcoming Wild Card Series. The Braves currently lead the division by 4.5 games but are positioned to finish as the #3 seed in the playoffs. The team is also considering various options for their rotation as they approach the postseason.