Atlanta Braves and Injury Woes

After an injury free April the Braves are now on the verge of a full blown injury epedimic. First Moylan announces his back surgery, then Lowe's blister, then Heyward's shoulder, and then Beachy's oblique. Yesterday, Chipper added insult to injury by suffering a concerning knee injury. Chippers official diagnosis was a small meniscus tear in his right knee. Without sufficient improvement in a few days, he could undergo arthroscopic surgery and miss around 2-3 weeks, reports David O'Brien of the Atlanta Journal Constitution.

Chipper isn't a spring chicken and one would assume the Braves will show caution when pushing the veteran back on to the diamond. With Chipper possibly out of the lineup for 2-3 weeks, the Braves are suddenly very thin in the Outfield. The Braves will likely move Prado to 3rd base and manage some kind of cruel musical chairs game in the outfield involving Mather, Hinske, and McLouth. David O'Brien of the Atlanta Journal Constitution reports that Heyward took his first swings Sunday since receiving cortisone injections in his right shoulder. It follows, the injured franchise player seems to be Atlanta's 4th OF option for the next few days leaving David Ross, Diory Hernandez, and Brooks Conrad as the only injury free bench players on the Braves active roster.

If there's a silver lining it's Atlanta's amazing pitching depth and their ability to withstand current injuries to the starting rotation. Friday, Brandon Beachy suffered an oblique injury while whiffing on a Cole Hammels deluxe special. Beachy left the game during the third inning and speculation of his replacement soon followed. The Braves have three very capable replacements in Julio Teheran, Rodrigo Lopez and Mike Minor.

The 20 year old phenom, Teheran, first comes to mind as he recently showcased his skills against the Phillies. Though his efforts didn't result in a win he certainly didn't have any reason to hang his head. Against a stacked Philly lineup, Teheran composed himself well and provided ample glimpses of why he is considered a top prospect within the Braves organization.

Rodrigo Lopez is an excellent option as he showcases a 5-0 record with a 1.79 ERA in seven starts for Gwinnett. However, Lopez has a 1 million dollar clause if promoted to the active roster and one would assume the Braves would like to save that money if possible. This leaves the Mike Minor who is 2-1 with a 1.86 ERA in six starts for Gwinnett. Minor has had success at the MLB level and is very capable of a spot start.

Injuries are always a concern as they can hamper even the best of teams. The Braves have a rare luxury in quality pitching depth and this should help them withstand their current injury woes. The Braves have serious depth issues on the bench but if Chipper and Heyward come back quickly those concerns will immediately evaporate.