The Atlanta Braves entered this season with high hopes for their bullpen—a unit that was a major offseason priority. But one arm that was supposed to be a reliable piece has instead become a growing concern: left-hander Aaron Bummer.

Signed to a $9.5 million contract this year, Bummer has been a far cry from the pitcher the Braves saw in previous seasons. According to HTHB's Fred Owens, "Bummer's velocity drop is concerning, but he's also just not the same pitcher this year. Including Sunday's game, Bummer faced 23 batters, gave up seven hits, including three home runs, struck out four, and walked one."

Those numbers have sparked serious questions about his role on the team. With Raisel Iglesias expected to return on Tuesday, the Braves face a tough roster decision. Some insiders believe that Bummer could be designated for assignment, though other moves—like sending down a different pitcher or using the "rubber arm" of Carlos Carrasco for the remainder of the road trip—remain on the table.

Battery Power's Scott Coleman noted, "Think there's a decent chance the Braves DFA Bummer on Tuesday when Iglesias returns. Much easier option is Carrasco but they might want his rubber arm for the rest of the road trip."

But if the Braves decide to keep Bummer, they risk a recurring problem. Braves reporter Kevin Keneely put it bluntly: "Aaron Bummer making $9.5 million this year is one of those contracts that is so bad that instead of DFAing him he'll be kept on the roster hurting this team every time he makes an appearance."

The dilemma is compounded by the Braves' limited left-handed relief options. With José Suarez gone, Dylan Lee is the only other lefty in the bullpen. That means Atlanta may have no choice but to keep relying on Bummer in key situations against left-handed hitters—even as his struggles continue.

There's still time for Bummer to turn things around, but the clock is ticking. For a team with playoff aspirations, every outing matters. If the Braves can't find a way to address this $9.5 million problem, it could create a difficult situation that lingers all season long.