Braves closer Grilli still plans comeback
After spending two months with his family following a season-ending Achilles injury, Braves pitcher Jason Grilli said he still plans to pitch in 2016.
“I’m going to be 39 this offseason. Some people may count me out; some people may say I’m still too old,” he said. “But as long as there is opportunity I think someone will find a spot for me knowing that (in) my history I’ve proven time and time again something like this won’t set me back.”
Grilli suffered the injury July 11 during a game at the Rockies. He said that “barring any setbacks” he planned to be ready for the start of spring training.
Grilli is set to be paid $3.5 million in 2016 by the Braves, who have a club option of $3 million for 2017 with a $250,000 buyout. At the time of his injury he had recorded 24 saves in 26 chances and had an overall ERA of 2.94.
Grilli was at Turner Field on Wednesday to be recognized as the Braves nominee for major league baseball’s Roberto Clemente Award, which recognizes players for sportsmanship and community involvement. Grilli was nominated for his work with hunger awareness and the fight against cancer.
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