Manny Banuelos scratched from Friday's start due to elbow soreness

The hits keep coming for the Atlanta Braves pitching staff. Rookie left hander Manny Banuelos has been scratched from his scheduled start on Friday due to elbow soreness. He is scheduled to have the elbow examined next week by famed orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews.

Manny Banuelos will not start Friday, dealing with elbow soreness. Will see Dr Andrews next week. #Braves

— Kevin McAlpin (@KevinMcAlpin) September 9, 2015

Banuelos had Tommy John surgery back in 2012 when he was with the Yankees. He had enjoyed an increased workload this season that saw his first stint in the major leagues with the Braves. Banuelos was placed on the disabled list in late July due to elbow inflammation and what was later determined to be a bone spur.

Banuelos went 1-2 in his first four starts while allowing six earned runs in 21 2/3 innings. That includes four earned runs allowed in his final start before going on the disabled list. Since returning, he has been tagged for nine earned runs in just 4 2/3 innings and has saw a drop in velocity on his pitches.

The hope is that there is not any structural damage in Banuelos' elbow, but that likely won't be determined for sure until after he undergoes an MRI.

Banuelos saw Dr Andrews while on his rehab assignment in Orlando. Not structural damage. But, been dealing w/pain since start Sun. #Braves

— Kevin McAlpin (@KevinMcAlpin) September 9, 2015

The Braves have not yet announced a replacement starter for Friday's game, but Matt Wisler is probably the leading candidate.