Sean Newcomb just sore and bruised after getting hit in head

Braves pticher Sean Newcomb winds up in the first inning Saturday, June 15, 2019, against the Philadelphia Phillies at SunTrust Park in Atlanta.

Credit: Logan Riely

Credit: Logan Riely

Braves pticher Sean Newcomb winds up in the first inning Saturday, June 15, 2019, against the Philadelphia Phillies at SunTrust Park in Atlanta.

Braves left-hander Sean Newcomb seems to be OK after taking a ball off the back of his head in Saturday’s loss to the Phillies.

Newcomb left in the third inning after he was pegged by a J.T. Realmuto liner. He never lost consciousness and walked off on his own power. The Braves put him through concussion protocol and tests didn't reveal any concerns beyond his bruise and soreness.

“He’s sore obviously, but all the tests (results were good),” manager Brian Snitker said. “He made it through the night good and felt good coming in. They exercised him just to see. He’s going to need a couple days anyway after the start. But as of right now, he’s feeling really good. We’re fortunate we dodged a bullet there.”

Newcomb will avoid a stint on the injured list. It’s the best possible outcome for him and the team. The southpaw was making a spot start Saturday but has proven himself a valuable piece of the bullpen.