Atlanta Braves: Call Up Matt Wisler

The Atlanta Braves are making a change in long relievers calling up Matt Wisler and designating Josh Collmenter for assignment.  Will Wisler thrive in his new found role?

After blowing last night’s game to the Pirates the Braves have decided to move on from Josh Collmenter. The move isn’t entirely reactionary considering that he has been struggling for the last month and unable to give the Braves quality innings.

In his place the Braves have called up right handed starter Matt Wisler. After spending two seasons as a part of the Braves rotation Wisler started in Triple A after struggling to record outs at the Major League level.

Wisler’s problem doesn’t seem to be his pitches or talent but his confidence and mound presence are both things that have eluded him since his struggles last season. Regaining those things in a mop up role could prove to be difficult but it will also give Wisler a chance to prove he belongs at the Major League level.

The Braves bullpen is full of young guns and reclamation projects that the Braves are sticking with Wisler will fall somewhere in between the two. He has had his chances but giving him another one isn’t a bad idea considering the role he is being given and the talent that he does have.

Collmenter will likely become a free-agent and try his luck with another team. His time was short with the Braves who really have little need for any more innings eaters. With Lucas Sims and Sean Newcomb both putting together good seasons it is hard to see the Braves keeping Wisler on the roster long if he doesn’t impress early.

Next: Braves Off-season Targets

They could opt to move Colon or Jaime Garcia to that role instead and give one of the Braves young exciting prospects a chance in the rotation.