Braves right-hander Dan Winkler is close to making his big-league debut, an opportunity he says may not have happened of if he were still with the Rockies’ organization.
The Braves selected Winkler in the Rule 5 draft in December and were willing to wait while he recovers from Tommy John elbow surgery. After two bullpen sessions and two simulated games Winkler said he could be ready to pitch on Monday for the first time since June 2014.
“It’s been a frustrating up-and-down roller coaster, something I hope to never go through it again,” Winkler said. “The Braves have given me such a blessing and an opportunity to take my time and get healthy. Whereas if I was with the Rockies I would probably be rushing it a little bit to get back and compete because I wouldn’t have the same situation as I have here. That’s made things a lot better and a lot easier from that perspective.”
As a Rule 5 pick, Winkler will have to spend a total of 90 days on the Braves roster between this season and the beginning of next season or be offered back to the Rockies for half of the $50,000 claiming price. Winkler was the California League player of the year in 2013 and was having another outstanding year with Double-A Tulsa when he injured his elbow.
Winkler said he’s had no issues with his elbow during the practice sessions.
“It’s just getting back into the competitiveness and getting back in the flow,” he said. “It’s been 15 months since I’ve been in a game.”
