The Braves recalled left-hander Tucker Davidson before beginning a seven-game homestand Monday. They designated lefty Jesse Biddle for assignment to open a spot.
Davidson, 25, made his major-league debut in the 2020 regular-season finale. He started, pitching 1-2/3 innings and allowing seven runs (two earned) on three hits against the Red Sox. After spending the shortened season at the alternate training site, Davidson’s debut was the culmination of a rise that began accelerating in 2019, his last full season. Davidson had a 2.15 ERA with 134 strikeouts in 129-2/3 innings across two minor-league levels.
The southpaw will start Tuesday against the Mets, manager Brian Snitker said. The team can stretch out its rotation by plugging in Davidson. It’s possible the pitcher could earn a further look with a strong outing. Huascar Ynoa broke his hand Sunday punching a dugout bench, which will sideline him for over two months. That creates opportunities for some of the Braves’ unproven pitchers like Davidson.
Davidson can rack up strikeouts, though his control can be inconsistent (he walked four in his MLB debut). Davidson is the Braves’ No. 10 prospect, according to Baseball America, which notes many believe Davidson will ultimately be a reliever long term. For now, the Braves are still developing him as a starter, and he’ll get a shot to show why Tuesday.
Credit: AP
Credit: AP
Biddle, in his second stint with the organization, had an 8.44 ERA in eight appearances. He struck out 11 and walked eight in 10-2/3 innings. He walked four and allowed three runs in his latest outing, which led to Sunday’s loss in Milwaukee.
The Braves (19-21) open a three-game series Monday with the Mets. The team entered play two games behind New York for first place in the National League East.
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