Atlanta Braves: Mike Foltynewicz Must Improve Quickly for Questionable Rotation

Mike Foltynewicz was the unquestionable ace for the Atlanta Braves last season. In his two starts back from injury this year he has looked like anything but the ace he was last season.

If Atlanta Braves fans weren’t worried about Mike Foltynewicz already they now have more than enough reason for concern. Foltynewicz has made two starts since returning from injury and has give up ten runs in a combined 10.2 innings.

His velocity was noticeably down during his starts and he appeared to be laboring nearly every hitter.

Unable to overpower hitters or pitch with the ease he had throughout all of last season. For the Braves, this is a big concern considering their lack of pitching depth.

While they have more than enough options for their starting rotation they lack a proven game one pitcher. Their bullpen is in shambles as well struggling to produce a clean inning.

The biggest concern for Foltynewicz is his overall health and whether his struggles could indicate a lingering injury issue.

Foltynewicz has had one great season and two below average as a starter so there is also the possibility he is simply regressing. Last season has been the outlier for Mike who hasn’t produced consistently outside of last season.

If he is reverting back to the pitcher he was before last year the Braves postseason hopes are in trouble. Without Foltynewicz at his best the Braves lack the needed pitching depth to compete with other National League contenders.

The Braves have to hope it is simply rust for Folty and he will soon return to the pitcher he was for the team last season.

A season that saw Mike establish himself as one of the better starters in the National League. Without that level of production the Braves won’t be postseason contenders or keep up with the Phillies in the East.