Atlanta Braves: Tyler Flowers Injury Only Negative on Opening Day
By Kit Anderson
The Atlanta Braves started out the season the right way with an 8-5 win over the division rival Phillies. The only downside to the opener was Tyler Flowers leaving the game with an injury.
Atlanta Braves catcher Tyler Flowers is dealing with a left oblique injury and left the game in obvious discomfort. The fact that Flowers left the game as quickly as he did without attempting to swing again is concerning.
Tyler Flowers took a hard swing at the plate and was in obvious pain and walked to meet Brian Snitker and the trainer. Flowers left the game quickly and didn’t seem to attempt or have interest in returning.
With that in mind Flowers was likely in a lot of discomfort and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him land on the DL.
Flowers came into the season already dealing with a groin injury that had limited him since March 19th. Flowers was replaced by Kurt Suzuki who had a great day and helped fuel a Braves’ comeback.
Chris Stewart took over late for Suzuki and made the Braves decision to carry three catchers look very wise.
Flowers is a big part of the Braves’ lineup and any extended time missed will be a big hit on the Braves lineup. Stewart is capable of replacing Flowers behind the plate but lacks the offensive skill that Flowers brings.
Aside from the injury the Braves opening day was one of the best in recent history with a huge comeback and plenty of long homers for the fans to enjoy.
Freddie Freeman and Ozzie Albies both went deep for the Braves with the biggest shot coming from Nick Markakis a three-run walk off bomb.
The Braves are yet to announce if Tyler Flowers is headed to the DL though it seems likely. The Braves will play their second game of the season tomorrow night in Atlanta with first pitch at 7:30 EST.