Reynaldo López Pain-Free and Poised for Offseason Comeback
The Atlanta Braves’ right-hander Reynaldo López is making strides toward a full recovery and a productive offseason. Although he won’t take the mound in a game this season, his recent progress suggests a promising outlook as he prepares for the upcoming months.
Positive Signs for López
López has been focused on regaining his form, and his bullpen sessions have marked a significant turnaround—it’s the first time in years he has felt entirely pain-free. This development is particularly encouraging for a pitcher who has battled multiple injuries since joining the Braves last season.
Manager Brian Snitker acknowledged the challenges López has faced throughout the year, expressing hope that the pitcher will be ready for live batting practice soon.
“He’s another one that’s been through a lot all year,” Snitker remarked. “Hopefully, when he gets to that point where he throws that batting practice, he can feel like he can have a normal offseason and not be in a rehab situation.”
Injury History and Recovery
López’s season was cut short after he suffered right shoulder inflammation in his first start. This condition was not new for him, but this time it necessitated a surgical procedure to assess the damage. Fortunately, the arthroscopic surgery revealed no structural issues, but it did require a lengthy recovery period of 12 weeks.
In his only appearance this season, López struggled, allowing three earned runs before being sidelined. This abrupt halt has been a stark contrast to his previous season, where he found a consistent role as a starter, finishing with an impressive 1.99 ERA over 26 games, including 25 starts. His only relief appearance came at the end of that successful season, when he was returning from a shoulder injury.
Looking Ahead
While López is the sole pitcher on the rehab track currently providing updates, the Braves are also keeping an eye on fellow pitchers Spencer Schwellenbach and Grant Holmes. Snitker mentioned that he is uncertain about Schwellenbach’s ramp-up plan, including whether he will join López at the complex in North Port, Florida. Meanwhile, Holmes has resumed throwing as he recovers from a partially torn UCL.
With the emergence of rookie Hurston Waldrep, the Braves are presented with a unique dilemma: only one rotation spot is truly up for grabs. Yet, given the depth of talent, this competition can be viewed as a positive challenge for the organization, setting the stage for an exciting offseason.
As the Braves look forward to the future, López’s recovery represents not just personal triumph over injury, but also a crucial piece in the puzzle of the team’s pitching lineup for the coming season.
