The Braves announced their 25-man National League Division Series roster Thursday with few surprises.
They’ll carry a 12-man pitching staff against the Dodgers, including budding youngsters Chad Sobotka, Max Fried and Touki Toussaint. Notable absences including Dan Winkler, Jesse Biddle, Sam Freeman and Shane Carle.
Shortstop Dansby Swanson won't play in the series due to a partially torn ligament in his left hand. Charlie Culberson will start at shortstop. The injury positioned the Braves to carry three catchers – Tyler Flowers, Kurt Suzuki and Rene Rivera – so one of Flowers or Suzuki could be more easily available to pinch-hit.
Utilityman Ryan Flaherty made the roster as a reserve infielder. Lucas Duda, acquired last month from Kansas City, provides some pop off the bench. Lane Adams is the team’s fourth outfielder, adding value as a pinch-runner.
Mike Foltynewicz will start Game 1 Thursday, followed by Anibal Sanchez in Game 2. The Braves have yet to announce their plans for the remainder of the series.
Here’s the roster in its totality:
PITCHERS (12): Brad Brach (RH), Mike Foltynewicz (RH), Max Fried (LH), Kevin Gausman (RH) A.J. Minter (LH), Sean Newcomb (LH), Anibal Sanchez (RH), Chad Sobotka (RH), Julio Teheran (RH), Touki Toussaint (RH), Jonny Venters (LH), Arodys Vizcaíno (RH)
CATCHERS (3): Tyler Flowers, Rene Rivera, Kurt Suzuki
INFIELDERS (6): Ozzie Albies, Johan Camargo, Charlie Culberson, Lucas Duda, Ryan Flaherty, Freddie Freeman
OUTFIELDERS (4): Ronald Acuna, Ender Inciarte, Nick Markakis, Lane Adams
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