Braves To Select JR Ritchie
MLB Trade Rumors • • sports
Key Points:
- The Atlanta Braves are promoting pitching prospect JR Ritchie to start tomorrow's game against the Washington Nationals, while optioning Didier Fuentes back to Triple-A Gwinnett and promoting Carlos Carrasco for long relief.
- Fuentes struggled in his recent start, allowing seven hits and a walk over three innings, leading to Martín Pérez pitching long relief and ruling him out as a starter for the upcoming game.
- The Braves needed a spot starter due to recent heavy bullpen usage and injuries, making Ritchie the logical choice given his strong early-season performance at Triple-A Gwinnett.
- Ritchie, a 22-year-old and 2022 supplemental first-round pick, has allowed only three runs over 27 1/3 innings with a 26.2% strikeout rate, showcasing a deep pitching arsenal and potential as a #4 starter.
- Although not yet fully developed, Ritchie is considered a key rotation depth piece and meets the criteria for the Prospect Promotion Incentive, potentially earning a service year if he finishes top two in Rookie of the Year voting.
