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Atlanta Braves: Previewing and Projecting the Rotation

By Kit Anderson

Mar 7, 2017; Bradenton, FL, USA;Atlanta Braves Jamie Garcia (54) pitches in the first inning of the spring training game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at McKechnie Field. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 7, 2017; Bradenton, FL, USA;Atlanta Braves Jamie Garcia (54) pitches in the first inning of the spring training game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at McKechnie Field. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 27, 2017; Lake Buena Vista, FL, USA; Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker (R) takes the ball from Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Mike Foltynewicz (26) during the sixth inning of an MLB spring training baseball game against the Detroit Tigers at Champion Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 27, 2017; Lake Buena Vista, FL, USA; Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker (R) takes the ball from Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Mike Foltynewicz (26) during the sixth inning of an MLB spring training baseball game against the Detroit Tigers at Champion Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /
  1. Mike Folynewicz

For fans that are expecting “Folty” to take another step forward this season and become the team’s ace they are going to be surprised at the flame thrower. Whether it is his recent altercation with a fan or his fits on the mound Foltynewicz seems unable to control his temper or his fastball location.

His velocity is impressive but his pitch placement is lacking and often has struggled to pitch deep into games. That isn’t to say he hasn’t done so on occasion rather he lacks the focus and composure to keep himself in a game if his velocity isn’t missing bats. There is the fact that he has struggled to stay healthy as well and at this point is close to a finished product.

Projected statline-5-13 Record-4.89 ERA-150 Innings Pitched-143 K’s

Foltynewicz has a good fastball one that will best be utilized out of the pen for the Braves. While trading Foltynewicz while he has starter value would be the more tempting option there seems to be no indication that the Braves have any such intention. Mike will start the season as the Braves 5th starter in the rotation.

Next: Braves Off-season Targets

Overall the Braves reached their goal of improving the rotation from one of the worst in the league to one that at least will feature names that the fans know. The problem will be age and health the Braves are going to have to have a lot of things fall their way if this rotation where to be a competing one this season.

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