The Atlanta Braves initially acquired Carlos Carrasco to help cover innings after unfortunate injuries depleted the starting rotation. He had opened the season with the Yankees, but he struggled mightily with a 5.91 ERA over eight games before they removed him from their roster.
He remained with their Triple-A organization before the Braves traded for him. Atlanta hoped he and Erick Fedde would be able to eat innings, saving the bullpen arms from being overworked. Unfortunately, that hasn't happened.
Carrasco was designated for assignment after an atrocious start against the Mets. He lasted just two innings and allowed six runs on six hits with three walks and two strikeouts. This, coupled with a 9.88 ERA over three games with the Braves, was enough to designate him for assignment several days ago.
Braves bring back Carlos Carrasco on minor league deal despite poor performance
Carrasco soon elected free agency after the move and after briefly testing the market, he ultimately re-signed with the Braves on a minor league deal on Sunday. Carrasco will be pitching for Triple-A Gwinnett and will be a depth option should the Braves need him again.
Fans are hoping and praying there's no reason to see him back in the big leagues anytime soon. Chris Sale, who looked good in his second start during his rehab assignment, should return to the rotation soon. Carrasco wasn't going to be around for much longer either way.
He has a 7.09 ERA this season over 45.2 innings. This is hardly something teams will be chomping at the bit to put on a big league mound unless necessary. His stuff just isn't as good as it once was, and it doesn't benefit the Braves if he can't at least cover 6+ innings per start.
Luckily for the Braves, Hurston Waldrep has emerged as a legitimate starter, Bryce Elder is finding ways to pitch deep into games, and Joey Wentz has been impressive. The only real concerns have been Strider struggling to regain his form and Fedde's inability to pitch deep into games.
Things are starting to improve for the rotation, and hopefully, they can finish strong to end the season on a high note.