The Atlanta Braves continue to dominate the NL East, holding a commanding 8.5-game lead over the rest of the division. Before tonight's matchup against the Seattle Mariners, the team made a series of roster moves that signal they're gearing up for a strong postseason push.
Most notably, the Braves reinstated closer Raisel Iglesias from the injured list, a welcome return for a bullpen that has sorely missed his veteran presence. Iglesias landed on the IL on April 21st due to an awkward sleeping position—a reminder that even elite athletes can be sidelined by the most unexpected mishaps. During his absence, Robert Suarez stepped up admirably in the closer role. However, the bridge between the starting rotation and the late-inning arms has been shaky. Beyond Iglesias, Suarez, Tyler Kinley, Dylan Lee, and Didier Fuentes, the Braves' bullpen has struggled, posting a collective -0.3 WAR. While WAR isn't the most reliable stat for relievers, their FIP tells a similar story of inconsistency.
In a corresponding move, the Braves designated right-hander Carlos Carrasco for assignment—marking the second time in a week he's received this news. The team initially retained Carrasco after his first DFA, but this time around, it seems the veteran will be packing his bags for the team's upcoming series in Los Angeles against the Dodgers. It's unclear who will take his spot on the roster, but the Braves' front office is clearly looking to tighten the pitching staff.
On the rehab front, there's positive news coming from the minor leagues. Infielder Ha-Seong Kim continues his recovery from an icy fall during the offseason that delayed his start to the season. In 13 plate appearances with Double-A Columbus, Kim has already collected three singles and four walks, showing excellent plate discipline. He'll now join left-handed pitcher Dylan Dodd in Gwinnett, who is rehabbing from left thoracic spine inflammation. With both players making steady progress, Braves fans could see them back in the majors sooner rather than later—just in time to bolster the roster for the stretch run.