Consecutive one-run losses have showcased how some Atlanta Braves' bullpen arms are more reliable than others. Left-handed reliever Danny Young is one bullpen option that is in the midst of a prolonged slump.
Entering Saturday, Young had a 6.10 ERA and 6.38 FIP; this was before allowing another homer against the Yankees. Young has now given up runs in three straight appearances, and nothing in his profile suggests that he is close to turning things around at this point.
The Braves have replacements ready for Young, and his days in Atlanta could be in its final hours. One left-handed reliever in particular is an intriguing option, and one many in Braves Country have probably forgotten about.
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Rehabbing pitcher Ray Kerr could be the answer to Braves' Danny Young problem
Ray Kerr...haven't heard that name in quite some time. The 31-year-old lefty reliever was acquired back in 2023 from the Padres, but his time on the mound in Atlanta has been limited due to injury. Kerr pitched just over 22 innings for the Braves in 2024, posting a 4.42 FIP before an unfortunate elbow injury cut his season short.
Kerr underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2024 and spent the entirety of the 2025 season recovering from that injury. He finally made his return to the mound this season. Thus far, Kerr has made rehab appearances at every level in the Braves' minor leagues, and his latest dominant outing with Triple-A Gwinnett showcases how close he is to returning to the big league club.
On Thursday, Kerr pitched 1.1 innings, punched out two hitters, and did not allow a baserunner. Kerr's swing-and-miss stuff has always made him an intriguing left-handed option, and with Danny Young's recent struggles, it's clear the Braves have arms with higher upside waiting in the wings.
The Braves have burned through James Karinchak, Aaron Bummer, Joel Payamps, and potentially Danny Young as arms that the team hoped could stick as the final member of the bullpen. This revolving door should keep granting opportunities, and a fully healthy Ray Kerr feels like a great shout to get the next crack at the job.
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