The Atlanta Braves right hander is set to resume throwing activities after missing a week with shoulder soreness.
When Atlanta Braves fans received word that Mike Soroka was dealing with shoulder soreness, there was a small feeling of dread surrounding the young prospect. Fortunately, it seems that the injury wasn’t that big of a deal and it didn’t happen while throwing.
Soroka’s shoulder is bothering him again. He felt some discomfort while lifting weights a month ago, but he was able to complete bullpens in pain-free fashion until this week. He’ll be restricted from throwing for another 4-5 days.
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) February 22, 2019
Soroka mentioned that his bullpen sessions were going very well even with the soreness. However, he elected to come forward instead of risking a major injury. In an interview with 680 The Fan, Soroka stated “It was something I decided to bring forward to them instead of, kind of, have it come as a surprise three innings in, you know.”
VIDEO: Mike Soroka gives an update on his shoulder and when he expects to resume throwing. #Braves https://t.co/ywBDAgRjKk
— 680 The Fan (@680TheFan) February 25, 2019
It seems that Soroka did not want to risk setting himself back any further than he has to. I’m sure he understands that he has a spot to compete for and wants to be at 100% to prove he belongs in the rotation. The 2019 Atlanta Braves rotation will feature Mike Foltynewicz, Kevin Gausman, Julio Teheran, and Sean Newcomb.
Luckily for Atlanta Braves fans, manager Brian Snitker announced that Soroka is set to resume pitching activities on Thursday (2/28). This is a welcome sight as the Braves hope to see a healthy Mike Soroka push for a spot in the starting rotation.
Mike Soroka's shoulder is feeling better and he's expected to start throwing again on Thursday. #Braves @680TheFan
— Kevin McAlpin (@KevinMcAlpin) February 26, 2019
The final spot of the rotation is yet to be decided as there are numerous young arms that are suited to fill it. Touki Toussaint, Max Fried, and Luiz Gohara are Soroka’s likely competitors to begin the season in the rotation. I believe if Mike is healthy, he would be the best fit for the rotation.
In his short stint with the Atlanta Braves last season, Mike Soroka posted a 3.51 ERA in 25 2/3 innings. A small sample size but based on the few games he was able to pitch, the 21-year-old showed intensity and incredible command of his pitches. This will be something to keep an eye on going forward Mike Soroka’s career.