The Braves added reinforcements Monday through utility men Sean Rodriguez and Danny Santana. Now bullpen help is on the way.
Arodys Vizcaino made what's likely his final rehab appearance Monday night in Gwinnett. The Braves are expected to add the reliever back to their roster on Wednesday, according to manager Brian Snitker.
Vizcaino threw 19 pitches (12 strikes) in the first inning. He faced four hitters, concluding the frame with a strikeout. He topped at 98 mph on the gun.
Several scouts were on hand to evaluate Vizcaino.
Vizcaino has been out with a strained right index finger since July 5.
"It was something the doctors thought we were risking a little bit if we kept running him out there and not taking care of it," Snitker said when Vizcaino was placed on the disabled list. "We've got a lot of ballgames to play when we come back and he's a big, big part of what we have to do. It was just a good opportunity with the four days of the All-Star break to sit him down and get him right."
The Braves’ bullpen hasn’t been a strength, though that’s not due to Vizcaino’s efforts. In 37 games, he earned a 2.38 ERA, best among Braves relievers. He had a 1.44 ERA over his previous 25 innings before hitting the DL.
Vizcaino has worked primarily as a set-up man this season.
