The Braves’ bullpen took a hit on Wednesday when its most consistent reliever, right-hander Arodys Vizcaino, went to the 10-day disabled list because of a strained right index finger.
The Braves announced the more just before the rain-delayed start of their game against the Astros. Braves manager Brian Snitker said the finger has bothered Vizcaino since last week’s series at San Diego. Vizcaino pitched in one game during that series and then made two appearances against the Athletics over the weekend.
Snitker said the Braves hope to have Vizcaino back soon after they resume their schedule on July 14, following the All-Star break.
“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. “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.”
Vizcaino’s 2.38 ERA over 37 games leads all Braves relievers and had a 1.44 ERA over his past 27 appearances (25 innings). Snitker generally has used Vizcaino in a late innings set-up role. He said he would “mix and match” relievers for the role with right-hander Jose Ramirez likely the top option.
To take Vizcaino’s place on the roster, the Braves recalled right-hander Matt Wisler from Triple-A Gwinnett.
