As the Braves continue through spring training, the race for a fifth starter behind Mike Foltynewicz, Sean Newcomb, Kevin Gausman and Julio Teheran is under way. Braves beat reporter Gabriel Burns will provide a daily handicap of the race for the final spot.
The rankings will fluctuate as circumstances change, be that because of performance, injury or the team’s thinking.
Here’s how the pitchers stack up March 9:
1. Kyle Wright
Wright impressed Monday against the Yankees, and his next outing is around the corner. He’s proved to be perhaps even more advanced than expected. He remains our leader by a hair.
2. Touki Toussaint
Toussaint entered camp the favorite for the job. His last outing was his best, when he tossed three scoreless frames against the Tigers, who hit him for five earned runs in he previous outing.
3. Max Fried
Fried looked excellent against the Phillies on Friday night, pitching 3-2/3 innings, allowing one run and striking out four. It’s up in the air if he starts the season in the majors, but he’ll factor in the Braves’ immediate plans.
4. Bryse Wilson
After getting roughed up by the Blue Jays on March 1, Wilson rebounded nicely with three scoreless, one-hit innings against the Marlins on Wednesday. The Braves might let him get stretched out in Triple-A, but he should contribute as a starter and reliever during the season.
5. Kolby Allard
Allard has pitched in three games this spring, allowing on run in six innings. He’s trying to re-establish his value after a tough debut in the majors. He’s expected to start the season with Triple-A Gwinnett.
Others:
Mike Soroka
A healthy Soroka could be the clear front-runner for the job, but his shoulder hasn’t cooperated. Soroka is working his way back and hopes to pitch in games towards the end of spring training.
Luiz Gohara
Gohara has yet to pitch in a game this spring. He was optioned to minor-league camp Friday as he tries to get healthy.
