URGENT UPDATE: The Atlanta Braves have just claimed right-hander Alek Manoah off waivers from the Toronto Blue Jays, a significant move that could reshape their pitching rotation. This comes after Manoah, a former Cy Young contender, faced a tumultuous season, leading to his designation for assignment earlier this week.
In his rookie season of 2021, Manoah impressed with a 9-2 record, but his performance took a dramatic downturn in 2023. Starting the season as Toronto’s opening day pitcher, he struggled to a 1-7 record with a 6.36 ERA before being demoted to the rookie-level Florida Complex League in June.
Manoah did show some signs of recovery, posting a 2-2 record with a 4.91 ERA in seven starts after returning to the big league roster in July. However, his season was cut short due to elbow surgery, which sidelined him for the rest of the year. Most recently, he pitched at Triple-A Buffalo, where he went 1-1 with a 2.97 ERA in seven starts, allowing six home runs among 27 hits.
To accommodate Manoah on their 40-man roster, the Braves transferred infielder Ozzie Albies to the 60-day injured list. Albies was diagnosed with a fractured hamate bone in his left hand earlier this week, marking a significant blow to Atlanta’s lineup.
This move signals Atlanta’s commitment to bolstering their pitching staff as they head into crucial games. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Manoah can reclaim his former glory and contribute to the Braves’ playoff aspirations.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.