Atlanta Braves fans got some bad news this afternoon, as it was announced that Huascar Ynoa broke his hand and will be out for approximately two months.
It was not a good day for the Atlanta Braves today as fans were greeted with this news about Huascar Ynoa.
Ynoa broke his right hand when he punched the dugout after exiting yesterday's start. He'll miss at least a couple months
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) May 17, 2021
Ynoa broke his right hand yesterday after exiting the game against the Brewers. It was one to forget as Ynoa went 4.1 innings, giving up nine hits, two walks, and five runs.
Obviously frustrated, he punched the dugout bench after leaving the game which caused the injury.
This is heartbreaking for Braves fans as Ynoa was arguably the Braves MVP not named Ronald Acuña so far in 2021. Without him, there is no clue where the Braves would be.
He has been the staff Ace to start the season, sitting at 4-2 with a 3.02 ERA… that ERA being a bit inflated after Sunday’s start against the Brewers.
The Braves currently ranked 24th in team ERA and have had trouble finding any consistency from their pitching staff. This injury will not help the situation.
Ynoa has not only been one of the best pitchers but he has been one of the bright spots of the team. He has brought some excitement at the plate as well.
Huascar Ynoa. Vice President, 'Pitchers who Rake club' (Grand Slam/2nd HR this year) pic.twitter.com/Ka5ukvlSc8
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) May 5, 2021
Fans were excited for “Ynoa Day.” Every fifth day fans were ready to see a great pitching performance and potentially a bomb from a pitcher at the plate.
Unfortunately, it appears the next “Ynoa Day” will be a few months from now.
Next Man Up
This injury breeds opportunity for someone. Ynoa was not thought to be a rotation piece before the season but took the opportunity he was given and ran with it.
Now it is time for someone else to take the opportunity. It appears Tucker Davidson will get the first crack at the open rotation spot.
The 6’2 lefty is the Braves’ 8th ranked prospect and has gotten off to a good start in Gwinnett. In 14 innings, Davidson is 2-0 with a 0.64 ERA and 14 strikeouts. He has only walked three batters in those two starts which is encouraging.
If he does well in tomorrow’s start, he has an opportunity to make it a permanent spot in the rotation.
The injury to Ynoa hurts, but the Braves have to move on. Hopefully, Davidson takes the opportunity and runs with it.