Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Ian Anderson underwent Tommy John surgery in April 2023 and has been working hard to return to the major leagues this season.
Anderson made his first rehab start in the FCL league last week. He was supposed to make another FCL start on Tuesday, but things have altered for the better.
According to a source, Anderson and previous first-round pick JR Ritchie have swapped starting assignments, with Anderson appearing on Monday and Ritchie taking Anderson’s spot on Tuesday.
The rationale for the move: Anderson is scheduled to report to the high Single-A Rome Emperors on Tuesday for a series of rehab starts before his next assignment.
Anderson and Ritchie, 22, have been throwing partners while recovering from the same surgery, but there is no indication on Ritchie’s plans beyond his appearance tomorrow. According to MLB.com’s Jonathan Mayo, Ritchie is the Braves’ No. 4 prospect.
The Braves struggled during May and June, but have recently improved. They also appear to be getting stronger as players return from injury.
Max Fried has performed admirably since returning from the IL, while reliever A.J. Minter has made another step toward his return.
Anderson’s potential acquisition in the second half of the season would provide another arm to the arsenal. One who is experienced pitching in high-pressure situations, as the Braves anticipate in September and October.
Anderson’s lifetime ERA is 1.26 in eight postseason outings. He would be a valuable addition to the rotation if the Braves can acquire that version of Anderson in the second half and beyond.
