Shortly after giving Evan Phillips a life-changing call, the Braves sent their rookie reliever back to the minors without appearing in a game.
“I told him ‘You’re in the mix now,’” manager Brian Snitker said. “Welcome to the life of a reliever.”
The Braves sent Phillips back to Triple-A Gwinnett to open a roster spot for Mike Foltynewicz, who started Monday’s game against the Reds. Foltynewicz had been on the disabled list for two weeks with triceps tightness.
Foltynewicz had emerged into the Braves’ best starter along with left-hander Sean Newcomb. Foltynewicz, who left his last start June 12 after five shutout innings, owned a 0.86 ERA over his past seven outings entering his latest start.
He continued his strong work Monday night, limiting the Reds to one run - a Scott Schebler homer - across five innings. He carried a no-hitter into his final frame of work despite four walks. He threw 91 pitches.
The Braves opted to keep Lucas Sims over Phillips. Snitker wanted an arm capable of providing length in the event Foltynewicz needed to exit early. Foltynewicz wasn’t limited, but in the event of an emergency, Sims was the most viable option.
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