A.J. Minter said he’s ready to go.
The Braves closer threw 12 to 15 pitches Wednesday afternoon and afterward declared himself available for game action. The lefty had been sidelined with back tightness for the last few days.
Manager Brian Snitker would prefer to give Minter one more day, and he likely will be afforded that luxury with everyone in his bullpen available. Kevin Gausman eating eight innings Tuesday was a fortunate turn of events.
“If we need him, he’s available,” Snitker said. “He threw a really good side. Everything’s feeling really good.”
It’s a positive development for the Braves, who already have been without previous closer Arodys Vizcaino. They didn’t anticipate Minter would need time on the disabled list, though there always was a chance depending on his recovery’s progression.