Braves reunion with All-Star starter could have major implications for Didier Fuentes, JR Ritchie originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Atlanta Braves are still trying to determine the best way to structure their pitching plans as the early part of the season continues. The Braves made the decision to designate starter Martín Pérez for assignment following his start over the weekend.

“The Braves are designating left-hander Martin Perez for assignment, as Walt Weiss told reporters (including Chad Bishop of the Atlanta Journal Constitution). He’s being replaced on the active roster by southpaw Dylan Dodd, who is being recalled from Triple-A Gwinnett,” MLB Trade Rumors’ Nick Deeds wrote.

The move was expected, as the Braves have been dealing with injuries to their pitching staff to begin the season. Moves like this have become frequent for Atlanta as they try to keep arms fresh. On Wednesday morning, the Braves re-signed Perez after he cleared waivers.

“Martin Perez cleared waivers yesterday, elected free agency and has signed back with Braves on a minor league deal,” MLB insider Jon Heyman wrote.

This is significant, as Perez could easily be called up for his projected next start, which would come this weekend in Philadelphia. With the Braves bringing Perez back, it likely puts a hold on calling up Didier Fuentes and JR Ritchie. Additionally, the looming return of Spencer Strider further complicates the situation.

“The Atlanta Braves opt for the expected move regarding Spencer Strider’s rehab assignment. The plan is for Murphy to catch him during his start. He’s still scheduled for his rehab assignment to begin on Thursday. The aim is for him to throw between 45 and 50 pitches. Weiss said that if Strider is efficient, then he could have the chance to pitch into the fourth inning of the game,” SI’s Harrison Smajovitts wrote.

There is no doubt that Braves fans are eager for both prospects to get their opportunity, as they have been performing well in Triple-A. However, it makes sense for Atlanta to rely on its veterans at this point in the season.

When Perez was initially designated for assignment, it seemed likely that Fuentes would get another opportunity. Now, that scenario appears less likely. It will be interesting to see how the Braves continue to manage their pitching staff moving forward.

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