The Braves need two extra starting pitchers for Saturday’s doubleheader against the Mets now that Bartolo Colon is on the disabled list. Manager Brian Snitker said both are likely to come from the minor leagues.
Braves relievers Sam Freeman and Luke Jackson could handle the assignment but one or both could be needed for bullpen duty before Saturday. That means the Braves likely will promote two of their Triple-A pitchers with Matt Wisler, Sean Newcomb and Lucas Sims among the candidates.
All three players are scheduled to start for Gwinnett later this week: Newcomb on Wednesday, Wisler on Friday and Sims on Saturday.
The Braves will benefit from the MLB rule that allows an extra player on the roster for doubleheaders. Wisler was optioned to Gwinnett on Friday but can be added as the 26th man even though he hasn’t spent the minimum 10 days in the minors.
Wisler made 45 starts for the Braves over the past two seasons and posted a 4.88 ERA. He’s made six relief appearances this season (nine innings) with a 7.00 ERA.
Newcomb, 23, is 3-3 with a 2.97 ERA in 11 starts (54 2/3 innings) at Triple-A Gwinnett this season with 74 strikeouts and 33 walks. The Braves acquired him from the Angels in November 2015 as part of the Andrelton Simmons trade. Newcomb is not on the 40-man roster but the Braves have two open spots.
Sims, 23, is a former Brookwood High star. He started this season strong for Gwinnett but over his past four starts he’s compiled an 8.38 ERA.
