Braves Promoting Mike Foltynewicz to Start Against Twins on Tuesday
By Sean Facey
The Braves are getting back one of their key starters.
Mike Foltynewicz has been called up to make his first MLB start since June 22 against the Twins on Tuesday following an extended stay in the minors.
Mike Foltynewicz will be recalled to start against the Twins tomorrow night.
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) August 5, 2019
Foltynewicz was the undisputed ace of Atlanta's staff last year, finishing the season with a 2.85 ERA and his first career All-Star appearance. 2019, however, has been nothing short of a nightmare for him.
The 27-year-old has managed a grotesque 6.37 ERA in 11 starts at the MLB level this year. With Kevin Gausman now off of the roster, though, Foltynewicz will have the chance to reestablish himself as a vital member of the rotation.
The Braves could certainly use some help on the starting staff. Their rotation has put up just 7.1 fWAR this year, barely above league-average.
Mike Foltynewicz has been very solid since his demotion to Gwinnett in late July. He went 4-0, posting a 2.67 ERA with 8.29 K/9 and only 2.14 BB/9. Most importantly, he didnt allowed a HR.
— Georgia Sports Now (@GASportsNow) August 5, 2019
Excited to see if Folty can return to his All-Star form. pic.twitter.com/L8oiQ5nJAm
Facing the Twins will be quite a task, though. Minnesota's offense averages 5.78 runs per game, the second most in the MLB, and they've slugged a league-leading 217 home runs this year. They'll truly test his mettle.
If he can find his 2018 form against Minnesota, then the Braves will be in prime position to hold onto their lead in the NL East and head towards the postseason with the starting rotation in significantly better shape than it's been in all season.