Sean Newcomb will work out the kinks in Triple-A Gwinnett.
The Braves optioned the lefty to the minors before Sunday's game against the Mets. Newcomb, 25, pitched 1-1/3 inning the night before, surrendering a four-run lead in just six batters time.
Now 52 starts into his career, Newcomb has struggled with command issues going back to his days as a prospect. The swing and misses are down while the walks and deep counts remain up. The Braves, contending for a division title, decided his development is better served in Triple-A.
“He just needs the consistency,” manager Brian Snitker said. “I told him last night when I sent him out, it’s up to him. He’s going to have to take stock in this and make it happen consistently. We’ve seen what he can do. It’s just consistency.”
Acquired as the headliner of the Andrelton Simmons deal, Newcomb has been in the majors since June 2017. There have been times where he's realized his immense potential, including a near no-hitter against the Dodgers last summer, but inconsistency has ruled the day.
This move likely means Touki Toussaint will make Friday’s start in Cleveland. Toussaint pitched six innings Saturday following Newcomb.
The Braves also promoted Jacob Webb and Dan Winkler to the bullpen. They placed righty Arodys Vizcaino on the 10-day injured list (formerly known as the disabled list) with throwing shoulder inflammation.
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