Luiz Gohara made his first rehab start with Double-A Mississippi on Tuesday, though it could’ve gone better.
Gohara, who didn’t make a start in spring training because of groin and ankle injuries, was tagged for five runs (one earned) in the first inning after shortstop Luis Valenzuela committed a fielding error on the first fielding opportunity of the night.
Gohara, the 21-year-old left-hander, finished 3-1/3 innings, allowing five hits with four strikeouts and three walks. He threw 62 pitches (35 strikes).
Gohara was initially scheduled to pitch for Triple-A Gwinnett, but the team didn’t want to disrupt Mike Soroka’s scheduled outing. Gohara was pushed to Mississippi.
Gohara was considered the favorite for the fifth starter spot entering spring. The Braves maintained he wouldn’t return until late April or early May.
Aside from rehab, Gohara essentially didn’t have a spring training. Tuesday’s start was one of what’s likely to be a few before he joins the major league team.
Anibal Sanchez is the incumbent fifth starter. He’s done well in the role, limiting opponents to two runs across 11 innings.
