Amid their dramatic comeback against the Rockies on Friday night, the Atlanta Braves turned to Anthony Molina for multiple innings of relief. Molina performed effectively, helping keep the game within reach. However, as anticipated, he was optioned back to Triple-A Gwinnett following the game, allowing the Braves to recall a fresh arm ahead of their West Coast road trip.
The pitcher now headed to Colorado is the same arm Atlanta designated for assignment just days earlier. Veteran Carlos Carrasco was DFA’d when reliever Dylan Lee returned from the paternity list, but he quickly cleared waivers and re-signed with the organization on a minor league deal. That sequence enabled Carrasco to rejoin the major league club in short order.
The #Braves today selected RHP Carlos Carrasco to the major league roster after optioning RHP Anthony Molina to Triple-A Gwinnett following last night’s game.
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) May 2, 2026
Braves' managing of Carlos Carrasco is reminiscent of former reliever Jesse Chavez
The Braves’ practice of shuttling veteran pitchers between the open market and the major league roster is nothing new. Fan-favorite reliever Jesse Chavez experienced this frequently over the final seasons of his career, giving rise to a running joke that each time he parted ways with the club, he would quickly find his way back to Atlanta.
Carrasco may not match the level of effectiveness Chavez provided from 2022 to 2024, but the veteran still offers tangible value with his ability to cover multiple innings when needed. Beyond his on-field contributions, Carrasco is regarded as a highly respected presence in the clubhouse and a valuable mentor to the Braves’ young pitchers at Triple-A Gwinnett.
Carrasco is expected to pitch again if needed, likely in a low-leverage role. However, when the Braves require a roster spot—potentially for the return of Spencer Strider—Carrasco will likely be designated for assignment once again.
In the meantime, Carrasco’s role is clear: provide stability and innings whenever called upon, regardless of the circumstances. While his place on the roster may be temporary, his professionalism and willingness to embrace that uncertainty offer real value to a team navigating the demands of a long season.
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