Open dates won't alter Braves' pitching rotation

The Braves' starting pitchers will work with extra rest at SunTrust Park this week. Manager Brian Snitker said the team will stick with its regular five-man rotation despite open dates on Monday and Thursday.

Max Fried and Kevin Gausman will work with one extra day’s rest when they start against the Washington Nationals on Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively. Mike Foltynewciz, Mike Soroka and Julio Teheran will work with two extra day’s rest when they start, in that order, against the Detroit Tigers in an interleague series next weekend.

“I think it’ll be beneficial,” Snitker said of the extra rest. “I think it’s going to be good for the entire pitching staff … to take advantage of that.”

Entering Sunday night's game against the Cardinals, the Braves' starting rotation collectively had a 2.84 ERA for the month of May, the second best in MLB, and had worked 133 innings during the month, the fourth most in the majors.

The Braves also have an open date on June 3, the day following the series against Detroit, but after that they play on 16 consecutive days.

About the Author

Why this year probably is Dale Murphy’s best shot to get into the Hall of Fame

23m ago

Braves remain focused on pitching ahead of winter meetings

The Braves have ample spending room, so their options aren’t limited by finances. There are free-agent starters galore, and the trade market offers additional avenues.