Atlanta Braves pitcher Mike Minor could start season on disabled list

Oct 4, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Mike Minor (36) prior to game two of the National League divisional series playoff baseball game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

It has been approximately two weeks since news broke that Atlanta Braves left-hander Mike Minor underwent off-season surgery on his urinary tract, and reportedly, that issue has caused some worrisome shoulder soreness for the 26-year-old Minor. Despite the considerable amount of time to evaluate the situation, there still isn’t a great deal of clarity on the situation.

David O’Brien of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution brings news that Minor could start the season on the disabled list, and provides a bit of insight from Braves general manager Frank Wren.

"“He feels good. We’ve still got to play it by ear (on whether be ready to start season). It’s going to be close. But we’re not going to do anything foolish to speed it up for one start to make it work. We’ll do what’s right for him and for us.”"

That seems like a measured, cautious approach from Wren, and in the same piece from O’Brien, Fredi Gonzalez said “it’ll be close” with regard to whether Minor will be available. Minor was arguably the best pitcher for Atlanta in 2013, leading the team in fWAR (3.4), innings pitched (204.2), and strikeouts (181). The news that he could miss his first turn in the rotation is magnified given the uncertainty surrounding Kris Medlen, but at the same time, it makes total sense for the Braves to ensure his long-term availability by taking it slow.

Stay tuned for updates as they arise.