Atlanta Braves Beat Mike Foltynewicz in Arb. Hearing
By Kit Anderson
The Atlanta Braves defeated their starting pitcher Mike Foltynewicz in his arbitration hearing . He will make $2.2 million dollars after filing at $2.3 million a surprisingly small sum to take to an arb. hearing.
Mike Foltynewicz has been a part of the Atlanta Braves pitching staff for just over two years now and as of yet hasn’t put together a solid season. Foltynewicz was due a bit of a raise but the fact that the Braves and Folty fought over such a small amount is surprising.
With the hearing settled Foltynewicz can now turn his attention to focusing on getting ready for the start of Spring Training and making the Braves’ rotation. He is almost guaranteed a spot in the rotation with Julio Teheran likely being the only other lock.
Mike Foltynewicz is coming off of another streaky season where he failed to consistently pitch deep into games or control his fastball with regularity.
After being given a large raise through the arbitration process Foltynewicz must take a step forward this season and be able to consistently pitch at an above average level.
If he cannot find a way to put it together in the early half of this season the Braves should consider moving him to the bullpen. His velocity could best be used in short relief appearances that wouldn’t allow hitters as many looks at his pitches.
Regardless of where he pitches from Foltynewicz will be a key member of the team in the 2018 season as he looks to finally take that elusive step forward.