The Atlanta Braves have been without one of their fan-favorite bullpen arms for a little while now. Jesse Chavez has been a bright spot for the Braves out of the bullpen but he suffered a microfracture in his leg.
Chavez was hit by a pitch back in June during a series with the Tigers. The team did their best to keep him involved with a cardboard cutout featuring his jersey and even carrying him out to celebrate homers.
Chavez rejoined the Braves this offseason on a minor league deal and pitched his way onto the Opening Day roster. He was pitching extremely well before the injury with a 1.55 ERA and a 2.47 FIP through 29 innings of work. He also struck out 36 batters over that time frame and really looked like he could earn himself an All-Star nomination.
He was sent to Triple-A Gwinnett on Tuesday to begin a rehab stint. His first rehab appearance with the Stripers went well as he allowed just 2 hits, walked one batter, and struck out one as well.
Jesse Chavez strikes out the side in the 6th inning. pic.twitter.com/MAbQmHqxg9
— Gwinnett Stripers (@GoStripers) September 15, 2023
Chavez pitched in his second rehab game on Thursday evening and struck out the side in one inning of work. That now puts him at a combined 2 innings of work allowing 0 runs, 2 hits, 1 walk, and 4 strikeouts.
Whether Chavez will pitch for the Braves in the postseason remains to be seen as Gwinnett's season ends on September 24th. It's encouraging to see him pitching well and most importantly, that he appears to be healthy.
He would be a great bonus for the team heading into the postseason as he's proven valuable when it comes to eating innings when it is needed. No word from the Braves on what the plan is for Chavez since they had an off day on Thursday in Miami as they prepare for a series with the Marlins.
Keep your eyes on House That Hank Built for updates about Chavez and the Braves in general.