Jerry Blevins rejoins Braves bullpen

The Braves called up Jerry Blevins from Triple-A Gwinnett, filling their lefty specialist role. He replaces fellow veteran southpaw Jonny Venters, who was released Saturday.

The Braves designated Blevins for assignment Tuesday, and after no other team signed him, he agreed to a contract with Gwinnett on Friday. The Braves acquired Blevins from Oakland on April 28, after which he pitched five scoreless outings in six opportunities.

In his first five appearances, Blevins did not allow a run or a hit while pitching three innings. In his sixth appearance, he allowed four hits on two runs in one inning against the Dodgers. He was designated a week later.

With Venters out, Blevins and Josh Tomlin are the veterans of the Braves’ up-and-down bullpen. Relievers, including sudden closer Luke Jackson, have spoken well of Blevins’ leadership during his short time in Atlanta.