Grilli Leaves Game Due To Ruptured Achilles - Expected to Miss Rest of Season

Jason Grilli has been a welcome surprise for the Braves this year. After being acquired by the Braves for the 8th inning role, the Braves dealt Craig Kimbrel and Grilli assumed the closing role. He had been mostly excellent in the role with 24 saves, a 2.67 ERA, and 10 walks compared to 45 strikeouts.

However, during the ninth inning on a grounder to first, Grilli was running over to cover first when he very suddenly reached down, grabbed his ankle, and went down to the ground writhing in pain. The trainers and manager Fredi Gonzalez instantly ran on to the field and play was halted as they tended to Grilli who was very obviously in severe pain.

After it was determined that Jason was not going to be able to leave the game under his own power, they brought the cart out and he was carted off the field. In addition to being the most consistent member of the Braves beleaguered bullpen, he was also the target of numerous trade rumors in advance of the trade deadline.

We will update this story as it develops

UPDATE #1

Most of the beat writers saying that they believe its his Achilles

Grilli is still being evaluated, but it does sound like it might have been his Achilles.

— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) July 12, 2015

Achilles seems likely with Grilli, but no word yet from #Braves. He was screaming and holding back of ankle in that area

— David O'Brien (@DOBrienAJC) July 12, 2015

UPDATE #2

Worst fears are confirmed.....Grilli has ruptured his Achilles and is expected to miss the rest of the season

RHP Jason Grilli has a left Achilles rupture. He is expected to miss the remainder of the season.

— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) July 12, 2015

Left Achilles rupture for Jason Grilli. He's expected to miss the rest of the season. #Braves

— Kevin McAlpin (@KevinMcAlpin) July 12, 2015