The Atlanta Braves have made further adjustments to their major league camp roster today, with three notable moves. Reliever Ray Kerr and outfielder J.P. Martínez have been optioned to AAA Gwinnett, while veteran reliever Ken Giles has been reassigned to minor league camp. These decisions reduce the major league camp roster to 42 players.
While Kerr and Martínez were not expected to secure spots on the roster, Giles’ reassignment comes as a surprise. The 33-year-old pitcher is striving to return to form after spending much of the past four years away from the majors due to injuries, including Tommy John surgery. Despite showing promise during spring training, particularly in his recent Grapefruit League appearances, the Braves have opted to continue Giles’ development in minor league camp.
The decision regarding Kerr impacts the bullpen flexibility for the Braves, as he was one of the few relievers with a minor league option. This move underscores the importance of managing workloads for the projected Opening Day relievers early in the season.
Martínez, a potential backup outfielder, has been sent to Gwinnett to ensure he receives consistent playing time rather than sitting on the major league bench. However, he remains a candidate to rejoin the major league team if injuries occur within the outfield trio of Ronald Acuña Jr., Michael Harris II, and Jarred Kelenic.
Leave a Reply